LIBRARY OF CONGRESS, 



UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. 



t 



) 



MEMOIRS AND LETTERS 



OF 



THOMAS KITE, 



A MINISTER OF THE GOSPEL IN THE SOCIETY 
OF FRIENDS. 



PREPARED BY HIS FAMILY. 



FRIENDS' BOOK STORE, No. 304 ARCH STREET, 

PHILADELPHIA. Vj 

1883. 



./f 5£T/\5 



WM. H. PILE, PRINTER, 

No. 422 Walnut Street 



INTRODUCTION. 



When those who have, through the varied trials and tempta- 
tions of time, been driven nearer and nearer to the fountain of 
purity and love; whose course, as it draws towards its close, 
shines more and more unto the perfect day, are called home to 
the mansions of everlasting blessedness whilst in the midst of 
the fulness of their usefulness on earth, the church feels the loss, 
and amidst the sorrow that oppresses, it oftentimes becomes the 
duty of the bereaved, for the benefit of survivors, to preserve 
some memorial of the humble, obedient walking of the departed, 
and of the faithfulness of the Lord, whose all-sustaining presence 
has been with them to the end. 

We would gather up such fragments as remain, to testify of 
the inward exercises and outward trials, the fervent labors and 
faithful dedication of our dear departed parent and brother, 
Thomas Kite. Eemembering him in the varied relations of life 
which he so conscientiously filled : — the sustaining husband, the 
carefully concerned father, the helping brother, the sympathiz- 
ing friend, the faithful minister, we feel the poignancy of in- 
dividual bereavement, and the depth of the church's loss. 

In the oft renewed sorrow of our hearts we could lament and 
weep, but that we know that the Judge of all the earth does 
everything in faithfulness and truth, and that all is well with 
him, whom He hath gathered from amongst us. We see him 
not, but from the habitation prepared for him in his Heavenly 
Father's house, he calleth us, by the remembrance of his holy, 
humble walking amongst men, by the recollection of his earnest 
travail of spirit for our everlasting welfare, to follow him in the 



IV 



INTRODUCTION. 



lowly path he trod, to blessedness and peace. If we are faith- 
ful, his God will be our God for ever and ever; He will be our 
Guide even unto death. We remember how we have heard him 
testify in Gospel authority, to the holy, consoling truth, that 
the dedicated followers of the Lamb have the privilege of com- 
ing, in sweet unity of feeling, even whilst on earth, "Unto 
Mount Zion, unto the city of the Living God, the heavenly 
Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels, to the 
general assembly and church of the first-born which are written 
in heaven, * * and to Jesus the Mediator of the new 

covenant." Can we not in earnest travail of spirit seek more 
and more to attain this blessed unity? 

With hearts tenderly touched at the remembrance of the dear 
departed one — with hearts elevated with thankfulness to the 
God who redeemed him from the corruptions of this world, let 
us turn to the records of his life. Therein we shall find the 
follies of youth and its sins manifested, and the mercy of God in 
Christ Jesus which pardoned them all ; the imperfect obedience 
of riper years set forth, repented of and forgiven ; the faithful 
dedication of heart, and the peaceful and happy end permitted 
by infinite Goodness as a crown to the tribulations of life. 
These pages bear testimony to many earthly blessings and com- 
forts showered down around the way of the pilgrim, yet are they 
a record of trials and baptisms, of a preparation,' through sorrow 
for unmingled joy. 

These memoirs of my dear father were prepared by his family 
soon after his death, and now, after a lapse of some years, it has 
been a labor of love to revise them for the press. The revival 
of the memories of his earnest, loving labors for his family has 
been very precious. May the readers of this little volume be 
comforted and strengthened by the perusal of these records of 
his fervent Christian zeal for his dear Lord and Master, to press 
heavenward with the same dedication of heart. 

William Kite. 

German-town, Philadelphia, 1883. 



CONTENTS. 



CHAPTEE I.— 1785-1806. 

Birth and parentage of Thomas Kite, 9. Accident in early life. 
Placed apprentice to Benjamin Johnson to learn the printing busi- 
ness, 10. Lasting religious impressions in his seventeenth year, 10. 
John Letch worth's first appearance in the ministry, 10. Diary com- 
menced in 1802, 12. Sermon from Martha Eouth, 13. Diary. Yellow 
fever in Philadelphia, 16. Letter to his uncle John Letchworth, 16. 
Annie Mifflin and Mary Gilbert, 17. Diary,. 18. Yearly Meeting. 
Sermon by Nathan Hunt, 19. Letter from Mary Harper, 20. Ann 
Alexander, 21. Diary, showing careful watching over himself, 20. 
George Dilwyn, 23. Arthur Howell's sermon, 24. John Letch- 
worth removed to Chester County, Pennsylvania, 26. Thomas Kite 
writes to him, 27. Ruth Richardson and David Bacon removed by 
death, 28. T. K.'s letter to his young brother Joseph, 28. Attains 
his majority 3 32. 

CHAPTER II.— 1806-1808. 

Enters into partnership with Benjamin Johnson, 32. Letters to 
his mother, 32. Describes a colored lad without arms, 34. Partner- 
ship with his father, Benjamin Kite, 36. Letter of advice from John 
Letchworth, 36. T. K. in reply, 37. Pecuniary trials, 38. Makes 
the acquaintance of Elizabeth Barnard, 39. Letter to her from Joshua 
Maule, 39. Was married to her, 41. 

CHAPTER III.— 1808-1811. 

Letter to his wife, 42. Marriage of Robert L. Pittfield and Eliza- 
beth Folwell. Samuel Smith and David Sands attended the meeting, 
42. Elizabeth Kite takes her first born child, Susanna, to Evesham 



VI 



CONTEXTS. 



for her health, 42. Believing himself called to the ministry, T. K. 
first speaks in Frankford meeting, 43. Letter to his wife, 45. Mary 
Morton at Preparative meeting, 46. Diary, 46-50. Illness of his 
wife — birth of son William, 50. Death of Elizabeth Kite, 50. Isaac 
Paxson, Emmor Kimber and Thomas Scattergood speak at the 
funeral, 51. Thomas Kite's sketch of his wife, 51. 

CHAPTEE IV.— 1811-1814. 

Entry in his diary on the loss of his wife, 56. Accompanies 
Charles Osborne through Abington Quarterly Meeting, 56. Letter 
to his parents, 57. Sorrow over his trials, 57. Letter to his aunt 
Elizabeth Letchworth, 59. Susanna Horne has an appointed meet- 
ing in Philadelphia, 60. Death of Eli Yarnall. Letter to Edith 
Sharpless from Micajah Collins, 61. Death of Joshua Maule, 63. 
Letters to Edith Sharpless (afterwards Kite), 63. Yearly meeting, 
64. Sudden death of Caleb Shreeve, 65. Proposed high school in 
advance of Westtown, 66-70. Letter from Thomas Scattergood, 67. 
Married to Edith Sharpless, 68. Letters from Stephen Pike, 68. 
Jacob Lindley, 70. Letter t© his wife, 71. Encouraging sermon 
from John Cox, 71. Stephen Pike describes meetings at Burling- 
ton, 71. Henry Hull visits there, and Christopher Healy there and 
at Mount Holly, 72. Account of Mary Boscoe, 73. Summoned before 
a court martial, 75. Eebecca Kite born, 76. Sketch of John Hos- 
kins, 76. His death, 78. Sickness and death of Thomas Scatter- 
good, 78. Thomas Kite's letter to Joshua Sharpless on Thomas 
Scattergood's death, 79. Death of Mary Harper, 81. 

CHAPTEB Y.— 1814-1815. 

Letter to wife alluding to the launching of a frigate, 82. Stephen 
Pike to T. K. on the prospect of peace, 83. John Letchworth to 
T. K. sympathizing with him, 85. T. K. in reply, 85. Death of 
Anne Mifflin and Sarah Matthews, 86. Samuel Bettle acknowledged 
as a minister and visits Muncy, 86. Mary Eoscoe's address at Bur- 
lington meeting, 86. Letters of sympathy with Cheney and Martha 
Jefferis on the death of a young child, 88. Stephen Pike to T. K. 
on Friends of Burlington meeting, 90. 



CONTENTS. 



vii 



CHAPTEK VI.— 1816-1822. 

Thomas Kite recommended as a minister, 92. John Letehworth 
to him on that occasion, 92. His interest in his children's educa- 
tion, 93. Letter to Joshua Sharpless on the illness of Sarah Sharp- 
less, 94. Death of Eehecca Bacon, 96. Letter from T. K. to his 
father-in-law, 96. Decease of Eebecca Jones, 97. Visit to New 
England, on business, 97. Benjamin White, Stephen Grellett and 
Mary Naftel sail for Liverpool, 100. Lydia H. Sigourney, 100. 
Letter to T. K. from a young female, 101. T. K. to Martha Jefferis 
alluding to dull business times, 103. Decease of T. Wilson, 10.4. 
Letter to Joshua Sharpless mentioning some cases of malignant fever 
in Philadelphia, 105. Illness of his son Thomas, 105. Samuel Bettle 
,and John Letehworth visit Ohio, 105. T. K. visits Muncy, etc., and 
Centre Monthly Meeting, 108. Joseph Walton is his companion. 
He visits some meetings in Abington and Shrewsbury and Eahway 
Quarterly Meeting, but is much hindered by snow storms. Charles 
Townsend accompanies him, 108. Letters from Hyale Ann Sammes 
and John Phillips, 113. Mildred Ratcliffe in Chester County, 113. 
Lydia Phillips, 113. William Foster lands in New York, 114. Death 
of George Dillwyn, 114. Decease of Mary Morris, wife of Israel 
Morris, 116. Elizabeth Foulke dies in Burlington, 117. T. K. to 
his father-in-law, expressing sympathy with him under increasing 
infirmities of age, 117. Ann Yarnall's death, 119. T. K. holds two 
meetings with the convicts in prison, 119. Letter to Edith Kite, 120. 
Death of Nathan Yarnall, 122. Letter from Sarah Humphreys to 
Thomas Kite, 122. Letters to Susanna Kite at Westtown as a scholar, 
124-134. Letter to a young minister, 134. Death of Isaac Sharp- 
less, 135. Letter to T. K. from Lydia H. Sigourney, 136. 

CHAPTER VII.— 1819-1824. 

Separation of 1827, 137. Letters to daughter Susanna then at 
Westtown, etc., 139. Marriage of Edith Sharpless to George Mar- 
tin, 142. Letter to Joshua Sharpless, 143. William Foster holding 
public meetings in Philadelphia, 143. Letters to daughter Susanna, 
145. Stephen Pike to T. K., 145. Letter from Thomas Kite to M. 
B. U., 147. One to Phebe , 148. 



viii 



CONTENTS. 



CHAPTEE VIII.— 1825-1828. 

Letter from a young man in trouble to T. K., 150. T. K. in reply 
comforting and encouraging him, 151. Stephen Pike to T. K., 154. 
Letter to daughter Susanna, 156. Death of his father-in-law, J oshua 
Sharpless, 156. Letters to his son William, who was teaching school 
near Medford, ST. J., 157. Daughter Eebecca sent to Westtown B. S. 
as a pupil, 159. 

CHAPTEE IX.— 1828-1834. 

Letters to daughter Eebecca, 160. Elizabeth Bobson's last meet- 
ing in Philadelphia, 161. Letter to Eebecca Kite describing a visit 
to his brother Dr. John L. Kite, 162. Letters to Eebecca, 164. 
Yearly Meeting of 1829. Thomas Shilletoe and an Indian preacher 
at T. K.'s house, 165. Visit to Virginia Yearly Meeting, 165. Visit 
to Cain and Western Quarterly Meetings, 165. Death of John D. 
Grodman, M.D., 166. Letter to his sister Mary, 166. Injury to his 
son Joshua, who remained a cripple for life, 167. Thomas Kite, Jr., 
sent to Westtown as a pupil, 167. His father's letter to him on that 
occasion, 168. T. K. attends New York Yearly Meeting, 168. He 
attends the meetings of Concord Quarterly Meeting, 169. Letter to 
his son Joshua telling of the death of Thomas Bettle, 170. Death of 
Abigail Folwell, 170. Letters to Thomas Kite, Jr., 171. Visits the 
families of Eadnor Monthly Meeting, 171. Yearly meeting appoints 
a committee of men and women Friends to visit the subordinate 
meetings, their names, 172. Eemarkable prayer by Thomas Kite. 
172. Notes of visits paid by him while on that committee, 173. 
Letter to his son Thomas, 176. Also to his son William, 177. Letter 
to Thomas Kite, Jr., mentioning Edward Bettle's death, 178. Attends 
Baltimore Yearly Meeting, 178. Letter to his wife then in New 
England with Grulielma Widdifield, 179. Illness of Edith JefFeris. 
180. A visit to meetings in New Jersey, 180. Letter to Susanna 
describing the visit, 180. Letters to his children, 182. James E. 
Greeves and Abigail Sharpless were married, 183. Letter from New 
Bedford to his wife, 183. Letter to Edith Jefferis, 184. 



CONTENTS. 



ix 



CHAPTER X.— 1835. 

T. K. visits some meetings in New Jersey, 187. Letter to daugh- 
ter Rebecca, mentioning decease of Lydia S. Rogers, 187. Letter to 
Martha JefFeris on her daughter Edith's first appearance in the 
ministry, 188. T. K. attends New England Yearly Meeting, 190. 
Death of his son Joshua, 191. J. W. of Hopkinton to Thomas Kite, 
191. T. K.'s testimony concerning him, 192. Aaron Sharpless 
and Susanna Kite married, 192. Letter to Rebecca Kite, 192. Two 
letters to Susanna Sharpless, one describing Baltimore Yearly Meet- 
ing, 195. Letter to Edith JefFeris, encouraging her, 196. Letters 
to daughter Susanna Sharpless, 198. An evening meeting established 
for winter of 1835-36, in Arch Street Meeting House, 198. 

CHAPTER XL— 1836-37. 

Letter to Martha JefFeris informing of Mary Yarnall's death, 
201. Death of Griffith Edwards, 203. Letter to daughter Rebecca, 
204. Letter to E. S. F., 206. T. K. attends Ohio Yearly Meeting, 
J. R. Greeves accompanying him, 206. Letters describing his visit, 
206. T. K. on a committee of his monthly meeting to visit some of 
its members, 208. Letter to daughter Susanna ; death of Othniel 
Alsop, 209. Letter to E. S. F., 209. Death of Philip Price, 209. 
Decease of Mary Elliott, 210. An evening during Yearly Meeting 
week at Thomas Kite's house, 211. Anecdote of Thomas Shilletoe, 
212. Marriage of James Kite and Lydia B. Rodman, 213. Letter 
to E. S. F., 215. Letter to Aaron Sharpless, 216. Sarah Scull to 
Thomas Kite, 216. Account of a visit to meetings of Cain and 
Western Quarterly Meetings, 218. Letter to his wife giving an ac- 
count of the death of Abigail Greeves, 223. 

CHAPTER XII.— 1838. 

Letter to daughter Susanna, 225. Description of a visit to Muncy 
on a Quarterly Meeting's committee, 227. Letter to daughter Rebecca, 
then at Westtown as a teacher, 229. Letter to E. S. F., 230. Letters 
to daughter Rebecca ; John Justice's last visit to the city, and his 
death, 231. Illness and death of T. K.'s father, Benjamin Kite, 232. 



X 



CONTENTS. 



Marriage of William Kite and Mary F. Clement, 234. T. K. attends 
the meetings of Concord Quarterly Meeting, 235. Letter to daughter 
Susanna on the sickness of her child ; Thomas and Elizabeth Eobson 
described, 236. Letter to Martha Jefferis encouraging her daughter 
Ann, 236. Note on his religious services, 236. Appointed clerk of 
Philadelphia Quarterly Meeting, 237. 

CHAPTER XIII.— 1839. 

Death of Jonathan Evans, 237. Letter to Aaron Sharpless ; Daniel 
Wheeler, 238. Letter to Eebecca Kite describing the funeral of 
Jonathan Evans, at which Thomas Evans spoke, 238. Abigail 
Nicholson's decease, 239. T. K. visits Woodbury to attend Salem 
Quarterly Meeting ; Friends there, 239. Diary, 239. Several family 
visits alluded to. Yearly Meeting; names of several Friends in 
attendence, 243. Diary continued, 242. Letters of kind advice 
and encouragement to daughter Eebecca, 244. Thomas Kite, Jr., 
removed to Cincinnati, Ohio, 246. Letter to Eebecca Kite, then at 
Westtown, 246. Letter of advice to his son Thomas, 247. John 
Letchworth and Samuel B. Morris visit the monthly meetings of 
Abington Quarterly Meeting, 247. Dr. John L. Kite removes to 
Philadelphia ; his son Alban dies of scarlet fever ; Elizabeth Evans 
spoke at the funeral, 248. Letter to Martha Jefferis. A visit from 
Joseph Edgerton, 249. An encouraging letter to Susanna Sharp- 
less, 250. 

CHAPTEE XIV.— 1839-1840. 

Joseph John Gurney and his writings, 254. Thomas Kite ad- 
dresses him by letter, 252. Letter to son Thomas giving kind advice, 
253. Visit from Jacob Green, 254. T. K. in a family gathering, 
addresses several member present, 255. Letter to Thomas Kite, Jr., 
relative to his settling in Cincinnati, 255. T. K. attends Concord 
Quarterly Meeting, 256. Dr. Parish's death, 256. Sarah Kite, Dr. 
J. L. Kite's daughter, deceased, 257. Christopher Healy and John 
Wilbur meet at Thomas Kite's house; an interesting account of their 
visit, 258. During the Y early Meeting many Friends gathered at 
T. K.'s house, Benjamin Hoyle and Jacob Green ministered on these 



CONTENTS. 



XI 



occasions, 260. T. K. spoke in the Yearly Meeting on the care 
needed in selecting proper books for reading, 261. Letter to son 
Thomas. The Yearly Meeting described, 261. T. K. visits his son 
at Cincinnati, 263. The journey described, 264. After his return, 
a letter to T. K., Jr., describing the journey home, 265. Death of 
John North, in North Meeting-house, 267. Caution to his son 
Thomas against the love of music, 267. Illness of T. K.'s mother, 
Rebecca Kite ; her last letter, 270. Lydia Dean, visits the families 
of the Southern district ; and Elizabeth Evans those of Haddonfield 
and Chester, N. J., 272. T. K. visits Friends in Salem Quarterly 
Meeting, 272. Death of his mother, 273. Letter to Joseph Edger- 
ton, 274. 

CHAPTER XV.— 1841. 

Thomas Kite, Jr., entering into business in Cincinnati, his father 
sends him a letter of advice, 277. Letters to T. K., Jr., 278. Yearly 
Meeting, 280. Letter to E. S. R, 280. One to Martha Jefferis ; 
Joseph Snowden nominated as an Elder and Rebecca Collins as a 
minister, 281. Edith Jefferis acknowledged as a minister, 282. T. K. 
visits Baltimore Quarterly Meeting in company with James R. 
Greeves, 282. Letter from a Friend to Thomas Kite after his return 
from this visit, 285. T. K. to his son Thomas, 286. Letter to Nathan 
Kite, 288. One to Martha Jefferis ; Smith Upton's marriage with 
Sarah B. Thompson, 289. Ebenezer Roberts in Philadelphia, 289. 
Family gathering at Thomas Kite's, 290. T. K. to Nathan Kite in 
Indiana with Samuel Bettle, 291. Indiana Yearly Meeting, 293. 
Letter to Edith Jefferis, 293. One to daughter Susanna. John Cox at 
Arch St. Meeting, 294. Hannah Warrington visits North Carolina 
Yearly Meeting, 295. Letters to Rebecca Kite, Jr., 295. Thomas 
Kite writes to Jeremiah Hacker, 297. William Evans to T. K., 
from North Carolina, 298.. Nathan Hunt, 299. D. and A. Clark, 
301. Letters to daughter Rebecca, 301. Accidental death of Rachel 
C. Bartram, 303. 

CHAPTER XVI.— 1842. 
Illness of Robert Letchworth, 304. William Evans returns from 



xii 



CONTEXTS. 



North Carolina, 306. Letter to daughter Rebecca, 306. One to 
daughter Susanna, mentioning Robert Letchworth's death, 307. Re- 
ligious opportunity in T. K.'s family, 308. Letter to son Thomas, 
alluding to the pecuniary state of things, 309. Letter to daughter 
Rebecca ; Elizabeth Pitfield and Sarah Hillman visit the families of 
their own Meeting, 310. T. K.'s pecuniary troubles, 311. 

CHAPTER XVII.— 1842. 

Letter to daughter Rebecca ; Joseph Ely and Peter Thompson die 
suddenly, 313. Death of an infant of William Kite, 313. Letters to 
Rebecca Walton, afterward married to Joseph Kite, 314. Letters to 
Rebecca Kite, Jr. ; funeral of Rachel Bullock, 315. Susanna Sharpless 
to her father, encouraging him, 316. T. K. in reply, 316. Diary, 
317. Visit to Nottingham Quarterly Meeting described, 318. T. K. 
to his wife absent at Muncy on a committee of the Quarterly Meet- 
ing, 320. Their son Thomas long absent on business, 321. Visit to 
Burlington Quarterly Meeting, 322. Thomas Kite, Jr.'s return, 324. 
His father writes to him, 325. Letter to daughter Rebecca, 325. 
Philadelphia Quarterly Meeting, in the Eighth month. Elizabeth 
Evans and Hannah Gibbons ministers to them, and William Evans 
and Thomas Kite follow, Mercy Ellis closing with prayer, 326. 
Letter to daughter Rebecca ; Stephen Grellet ill, 327. Visit to Bucks 
Quarterly Meeting, interesting account of it, 328. Letter to son 
Thomas, 332. Letter to daughter Susanna describing a visit to Green- 
wich, N. J., 334. 

CHAPTER XVIII.— 1842, 

The Quarterly Meeting's committee visit Muncy; T. K.'s account 
of it, 336. Letter to son Thomas, 339. Diary, 340. Funeral of Henry 
Williams, a lad who died at Westtown, 341. Death of William 
Biddle's daughter Rebecca, 341. Letter to son William mentioning 
death of William Biddle's son Samuel, 343. Deaths of Mary Coates 
and Catharine Sheppard, 344. Diary, 344. Visits Woodbury, 346. 
Attends Xorth Meeting, 347. 



CONTENTS. 



xiii 



CHAPTEE XIX.— 1843. 

Diary. T. K. preaches on spiritual declension, 348. Elizabeth 
C. Mason appeared in testimony, 349. T. K. speaks in Orange St. 
Meeting from the text, " Verily thou art a God that hidest thyself, 
O God of Israel, the Saviour," 350. Letter to his daughter Eebecca ; 
remarks on D'Aubigne's History of the Reformation, 351. George 
Fox the greatest of modern reformers, 351. Sympathizing letter 
from T. K. to Joseph Edgerton, 352. Diary, 343. Letter to daughter 
Rebecca ; William Evans' return from Ohio, 354. T. K. speaks from 
the text, " Lord wilt thou at this time restore the kingdom again to 
Israel ?" 356. Letter from Mary Kite to Susanna Sharpless on the 
illness of John Letchworth, 356. Diary, 357. Obtains a minute to 
visit the meetings of Abington Quarterly Meeting, 357. Charles 
Allen's death, 358. Letter to son Thomas, 359. Diary, 360. De- 
scription of the visit to Abington, 360. Funeral of a young son of 
John M. Whitall's, 364. T. K. to daughter Rebecca, 364. Extreme 
illness of Edith Jefferis, 366. Letter to his son Thomas, 367. Diary, 

367. Funeral of David B. Griscom, 368. Letter to his sister Mary, 

368. Diary, 368. Funeral of Samuel Rhoads of Darby, 369. Calls 
on Rebecca Biddle and Elizabeth Baily, 370. Visit from Christopher 
Healy and Ezra Comfort, 372. Letter to son Thomas on the death of 
two of his friends by an accident at a fire in Cincinnati, 372. Diary, 
374. Letter to daughter Susanna alluding to the troubles in the So- 
ciety of Friends, 375. T. K. to daughter Rebecca, 377. Diary; decease 
of his uncle John Letchworth, 378. Death of Edith Jefferis, and 
her funeral, 379. Sarah Emlen's testimony to Edith Jefferis' worth, 
379. Yearly Meeting, 380. Diary, 382. Visits Jane B. Haines 
and Alfred Cope, 382. Letter from Joseph Edgerton to Thomas 
Kite, 382. Attends the Quarterly Meetings of Salem and Concord, 
384. Letters to son Thomas, 386. William Evans, Samuel Cope and 
Thomas Kite attend New York Yearly Meeting, 387. 

CHAPTER XX.— 1843. 

Letter from Nathan Kite to T. K. while he was at New York, 391 
Changing Virginia Yearly Meeting into a half year meeting, and at- 
taching it to Baltimore, 391. T. K. to Rebecca Walton, 393. Diary, 



xiv 



CONTENTS. 



394. Letter to his daughter Rebecca; Diary, 395. Funeral of Eliza- 
beth Williams ; Benjamin Hoyie of Ohio attends Arch St. Meeting 
397. T. K. to daughter Rebecca, 397. Diary, 398. Funeral of 
Elizabeth Edwards at Haddonfield, 399. T. K. to daughter Rebecca, 
400. Sarah Hillman obtains a certificate to visit Ohio Yearly Meet- 
ing, 401. T. K. to his son Thomas, 401. Letter to his wife. Visits 
Westtown, 402. Diary. Letter to daughter Rebecca, 404. Letter 
to son Thomas, 404. Diary, 405. T. K. to daughter Susanna, Isabel 
Casson and Rachel Priestman, 406. Letter to Rebecca Kite, 407. 
Diary. Clarkson Sheppard and Anne Garrett married, 407. Isabel 
Casson and Rachel Priestman had a meeting appointed in Arch St. 
Meeting-house for market people, etc., 408. Diary, 408. 

CHAPTER XXI. — 1 843-1844. 

Thomas Kite attends Indiana Yearly Meeting in company with 
William Evans and Henry Cope, 409. James Taylor; Harrison 
Alderson, 410. Yearly Meeting sittings described, 411. Letter to 
daughter Susanna describing the country, 413. Letter to daughter 
Rebecca, 414. Diary, 415. Visits Joseph Whitall at Woodbury, 
416. Lloyd Baiderston and Catharine Canby married, 416. Letters 
to Rebecca Kite, 417. Diary, 417. Letter to son Thomas, 419. 
Diary, 419. Letter to daughter Susanna, on the sickness of a little 
daughter, 420. Diary, 421. Death of a young child of Benjamin 
Albertson and also a daughter of Joseph Snowden, 421. T. K. to 
daughter Rebecca, mentioning cases of scarlet fever, 422. Diary, 
423. Funeral of Samuel Spencer at Moorland, 424. T. K. addresses 
his family on the texts, " Ye are the light of the World,' 7 and "I am 
the light of the World," 426. Death of an infant of James Kite 
and Lydia, 426. James R. Greeves accompanies Thomas Kite on a 
visit to Salem Quarterly Meeting, 427. Diary, 428. Hannah Gib- 
bons, Samuel Cope and Thomas Kite speak at evening meeting, 429. 
Funeral of Rest Cope, 430. John Pease, 430. Benjamin Hoyle to 
Thomas Kite, 431. Yearly Meeting; Sarah Emlen set at liberty to 
visit the churches of Great Britain and Ireland, 432. Sickness of 
Susanna Sharpless, 432. Letter to daughter Rebecca about her 
sister, 433. T. K. to son Thomas in allusion to his sister's illness, 
434. Funeral of Rebecca Haverstick, 435. Letter to Rebecca Kite, 



CONTENTS. 



XV 



436. Increasing illness of daughter Susanna > 437. T. K. to his son 
Thomas about his sister, 438. Letter to daughter Rebecca, 439. To 
son Thomas alluding to visit in Philadelphia, 440. Letter of T. K. 
to daughter Susanna, 441. T. K. when at Abington Quarterly Meet- 
ing alludes to Alice Knight's death, 443. Hannah Warrington 
attends Philadelphia Monthly Meeting, 444. Letter from T. K. to 
Ann Eliza Yarnall, 445. T. K. to daughter Rebecca, alluding to 
troubles in New England, 44S. Letter from Sarah Emlen, 448. 
Daath of Susanna Sharpless, 449. T. K. speaks at her grave, 451. 
T. K. to his son telling of his sister's last few days, 454. Rebecca 
Kite to her brother Thomas, 457. T. K. to his daughter Rebecca ; 
William Evans and Joseph Elkinton about to start for Canada, 460. 
Sarah Emlen to Thomas Kite, 461. 

CHAPTER XXII.— 1844-1845. 

T. K. attends Frankford Meeting also Meetings in Haddonfield 
Quarterly Meeting, 464. T. K. to Rebecca Kite ; death of Mary 
Wistar, 465. Evening meeting, T. K.'s ministry in, 465. Visit to 
Cain Quarterly Meeting on the Yearly Meeting's committee on the 
subject of education, 465. His gospel labors during that visit, 466. 
Taken unwell while at Westtown, 467. But continued to manifest 
his interest in the work throughout the visit, 467, 468, 469. Much 
worn when he reached home, but attended meetings for worship the 
next day. T. K. calls on Deborah Welsh, 470. A biographical 
sketch of D. W., 470. Increased sickness of T. K. ; Erysipelas sets 
in, 473. Dr. Kite calls in Dr. C. Evans in consultation, 474. T. 
K. converses with his sister Mary and other members of the family 
on the seriousness of his illness, 474. Had some trifling affairs 
attended to, 475. His disease attacks one lung, 475. His physicians 
inform him his end was approaching, 476. Declares his hope of 
acceptance through Christ our Saviour but adds, it is all of mercy, 
476. Sends for a few of his friends and bids them farewell, 477. 
Sinks peacefully to rest, 479. 



ft 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



CHAPTER L— 1785-1806. 

EARLY RELIGIOUS IMPRESSIONS — COMMENCED A DIARY — 
YELLOW FEVER OF 1803 — LETTER TO HIS BROTHER 
JOSEPH — DIARY LETTER FROM A FRIEND. 

Thomas Kite, the eldest son of Benjamin and Rebecca 
Kite, was born in Frankford, Philadelphia, on the 16th of 
the Seventh month, 1785. When he was about two years of 
age a cap of strong lye being left upon a chair within his 
reach, he seized it with childish eagerness, and swallowed a 
copious draught. His mother, turning round, found him 
with the cup in his hand, aud perceived at a glance w T hat he 
had clone. She felt that an agonizing death must speedily 
follow if a remedy were not instantly applied. A moment 
of suspense and her eye fell upon the oil can. With prompti- 
tude and decision, which ever marked her character, she 
took the child in her arms, opened his mouth, and poured 
down his throat a large draught of the oil. Entering into 
combination with the lye in his stomach it changed its char- 
acter, and, in the judgment of the physician, saved the life 
of her first born. Nevertheless, the effect upon his constitu- 
tion was severe, and for many subsequent years, he was weak 

and sickly ; so much so, indeed, as to interfere considerably 
9 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE!, 



[1800. 



with his attendance at school. But his parents taught him 
early to read, for which he imbibed a taste, and with little 
regular education, he acquired a large fund of general knowl- 
edge. 

Id 1792 his parents removed with their family to Phila- 
delphia, and as his health continued still unequal to the con- 
finement of school duties, he made long visits in the country 
amongst his relatives. His strength gradually increased, 
and in 1800 he was placed apprentice with Benjamin John- 
son to learn the printing business. 

Respecting the early part of his life Thomas Kite thus 
writes : " Though favored with religious parents, my early 
years were marked with many follies ; yet the Lord followed 
me with the convictions of his Holy Spirit, which were too 
often slighted. In my fifteenth year, being placed apprentice, 
I became exposed to the influence of bad example, and the 
usual contaminating effects followed. I desire that some of 
t he transactions of those times may fill me with humiliation and 
self-abhorrence, and that I may ever retain a sense of my un- 
speakable obligations to the Lord Almighty, who did not cut 
me off in my transgressions, but favored me with a powerful 
visitation in the seventeenth year of my age. In one of our 
meetings a Friend [his uncle John Letchworth] offered a few 
words in testimony, being the first time of his appearing in 
that line. I could not distinguish one word he uttered, being 
some distance from him in the youth's gallery, yet impres- 
sions of a serious character were then made, which never 
afterwards entirely left me : convictions for sin, desires for 
deliverance from its guilt and power, and that I might ex- 
perience conversion to God. 

After enduring for a season the dispensation of condem- 
nation, I believe I was favored with the gift of repentance, 



1800.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



11 



and enabled to enter into covenant with the Lord. I gave 
up the society of associates who had been a snare to me; sat 
alone and kept silence ; endeavored to keep a guard over 
my words and actions ; kept close to religious meetings, seek- 
ing to have my mind stayed upon God ; and was sometimes 
livingly favored of Him, both immediately andinstrumentally. 
For want of greater watchfulness, I too often missed my way, 
but met with merciful chastisements, and being thereby hum- 
bled, I w 7 as again admitted to favor." 

Being, through Divine mercy, thus thoroughly aroused 
from the state of carnal security in which he had been living, 
Thomas Kite endeavored to be faithful to the requirings of 
his Heavenly Father. He became earnestly concerned to 
attend religious meetings, and was conscientiously scrupulous 
that his master should be no sufferer by it. Having a daily 
task allotted, he was enabled by diligence, and working in 
the evenings, to make up his full quota, though he not un- 
frequently attended other meetings than his own. He en- 
deavored to be circumspect in life tod conversation, yet he 
had much to contend against in his natural inclinations and 
dispositions, and was often brought into deep humiliation in 
the retrospect of his daily walk before men. He now sought 
to spend his leisure hours in the company of those who were 
seeking the w<ay to Zion. His uncle, John Letch worth, who 
was then passing through baptisms consequent on a call to 
the ministry, he delighted to visit. Mary Harper, a valuable 
elder of Frankford Meeting, was also one with whom he 
could enjoy sweet fellowship, and from v/hose counsel and 
religious advice he derived benefit. One of her communica- 
tions, under date of Eighth month 4th, 1802, contains this 
passage : " I am informed thou art often conversant w T ith 
dear uncle John Letchworth, who, I hope, is in the road 



12 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1802. 



* * * to that glorious place where there it neither sorrow 
nor crying. I have often thought it would be well if the 
youth more generally were to spend their leisure hours with 
those advanced in age and religious experience." 

After wading along through many spiritual depths in the 
summer and fall, without attaining that stability his soul 
longed for, Thomas Kite concluded, in the Twelfth month, 
as one means of improvement, to commence keeping a diary. 
He thus explains at the opening his motives in the under- 
taking. 

Convinced of the necessity of watchfulness and circum- 
spection, I have resolved daily to pen down such events as 
impress my mind, that, by a frequent review of them, under 
the Divine blessing, I may endeavor to improve. 

Twelfth month 12th. Too willing to listen to reports to 
the disadvantage of my neighbors. " Thou shalt love thy 
neighbor as thyself." 

13th. At meeting, Xorthern District, thought the meeting 
was hurt by one or more injudicious appearances. Nothing 
but what proceeds from God can gather to God. He maketh 
his angels spirits and his ministers a flame of fire. . 

14th. Temper ruffled. Lord give me meekness ! Soul y 
dost thou not endeavor to shut thy ears against the voice of 
Christ when He opposes thy corrupt will? Lord, destroy 
the root of self in me ! A day of weakness. 

loth. At meeting : desirous of being inwardly gathered, 
yet too unwatchful. 

16th. Preserve me, O Lord, from every taint of envy. 
Evil thoughts. How desirable is a well regulated mind, 
even that state in which every thought is brought into cap- 
tivity to Christ. 



1803.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



13 



17th. Heard of the appearance in the ministry of a youth 
about as old as myself. Made a person angry. Preserve 
me, O Lord, from putting a stumbling block in another's 
way. 

18th. Beware of detraction. At three meetings, in each 
of which the goodness of the Lord was conspicuous. Awake, 
my soul, to greater diligence, and make thy calling and 
election sure. 

20th. At North Meeting. Light and life mercifully 
afforded. Exceeded in conversation. Guard thy tongue. 

21st. At Pine Street Meeting. Oh for a more deep in- 
gathering. Thoughts wandering and unsettled. 

22nd. None, however large their religious experience, 
are safe when off the watch. Be thou careful, oh, my soul ! 
Oh, how noble the simplicity of truth ! How consistent 
throughout is the character of the humble-minded Christian ! 

A few of the succeeding pages of his diary have been de- 
stroyed or lost. The next entry found is about the close of 
the Third month, 1803. 

At an evening meeting light and truth prevailed and the 
gospel trumpet was powerfully blown. Lord, grant that I 
may finally enter into that everlasting sheep-fold of rest, 
which was testified of this evening by thy servants. 

Fourth month. At a week-day meeting. A sweet cover- 
ing of solemnity. Martha Routh encouraged the young men, 
and quoted the example of William Dewsbury, a bright son 
of the morning, who was a weaver s apprentice. Oh that I 
might experience a little of that spirit which gathered our 
ancestors to the power of Truth ! Make my heart tender and 
thankful, O Lord, for the rene wings of thy tender mercies. 



14 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1803. 



Yearly Meeting. A remarkably weighty baptizing season, 
on the state of Society. 

Meeting for worship. The Gospel laborers engaged on 
account of the youth in earnest travail of spirit. 

Yearly Meeting closes, having been favored, during the 
several sittings, to experience the fatherly regards of the 
Holy Head of the Church. This short testimony was re- 
vived in the conclusion : " Jesus, having loved his own, loved 
them unto the end." 

Fifth month. Quarterly Meeting. The covering of 
solemnizing love was felt. O Lord, convince my obdurate 
heart. Meeting. Gospel calls to the youth. Awake, my 
soul ! Something of the Divine presence felt, calming and 
solemnizing the mind. A severe mortification. Oh ! Lord, 
withdraw me from depending on the world for consolation. 

Sixth month. Having had thoughts for some time of at- 
tending Westfield Preparative Meeting, I accomplished it in 

company with dear . In the first meeting he was enabled 

to speak of and open the prophet's visit to the potter's house ; 
recommending our becoming as clay in the Great Potter's 
hand, as well as mentioning the necessary operations of form- 
ing, drying, hardening, and passing through the furnace. In 
the meeting for business he had likewise considerable per- 
tinent advice to communicate ; and a lively meeting it was 
upon the whole. Several of the youth of that meeting seem 
hopeful. Having lately perceived that many of my faults 
seem to increase, and the old inhabitants of the land to get 
the victory almost daily, I hope to endeavor, with Divine 
assistance, to keep up the watch more circumspectly. O 
Lord ! bring every secret thought into judgment. Purify 
my soul, I pray thee, if consistent with thy holy will, amen ! 
Tried to learn silence. 



1803.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 15 



Seventh month 16th. My birth-day. I am eighteen 
years old. Oh thou eternal Creator of the world, enable me, 
a poor, weak worm, yet the workmanship of thy holy hands, to 
solicit thee, with sincerity of heart, for a continuance of thy 
manifold mercies. Pass by my backslidings, forgive my re- 
voltings, cleanse, purge and purify me, in the laver of re- 
generation, through Jesus Christ, the Lamb immaculate, the 
blessed Advocate for sinners. Oh God ! I beseech thee, 
enable me implicitly to bow to thy holy direction ! Let me 
feel the language of " Thy will be done," in the depths of 
my soul. Let me be in thy hands as clay in the hands of 
the potter. Preserve me from hypocrisy. Let me not take 
up a rest short of the true rest, but enable me to press for- 
ward toward the mark, in humble hope of forgiveness through 
the blood of a crucified Redeemer. And oh, my Almighty 
Maker, if consistent with thy will, bring me into union and 
communion with thee, and the Son of thy bosom, to whom, 
with thee, belongs worship, adoration and praise. Hosanna 
in the highest. Amen. 

27th. O Lord, grant me to make war in righteousness 
against my spiritual enemies, 

Ninth month. By the admission of a new journeyman 
into my master's house, I am exposed to much immoral con- 
versation, swearing, and taking the name of the Most High 
in vain. From observing my many backslidings, even of 
late, though favored to see my conduct in them inconsistent 
with the Divine will, I am jealous and fearful lest I should 
lose the little desire I have after spiritual good. Oh thou 
unslumbering Shepherd of Israel, preserve me ! May I be- 
come one of thy flock, whom thou leadest about in the green 
pastures of life ! May I go down to the washing pool oft, to 
be cleansed of the filth of the earth ! May I never fall into 



16 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1803. 



the snares of the devouring wolf! but by constantly endeavor- 
ing to follow thee, and be near thee, be admitted through the 
only true door into the sheepfold of everlasting rest and 
peace. Amen. 

About the time the last memorandum was written, the 
yellow fever appeared in Philadelphia, and although not at- 
tended with such mortality as in former years, it was suffi- 
ciently alarming to cause many of the citizens to seek a tem- 
porary refuge in the country. Benjamin Johnson having 
closed his printing-office, gave his apprentices the privilege 
of visiting among their relations out of town. He sent 
Thomas Kite into Bucks County on business, who, after ac- 
complishing it, being at liberty to go where he would, spent 
some time with his grandfather Benjamin Walton, who was 
then living in East Fallowfield, Chester County, Pennsyl- 
vania. 

Whilst he was at Reading, he addressed the following letter 
to his uncle John Letchworth, then in the neighborhood of 
Muncy, as companion to Annie Mifflin and Mary Gilbert, 
who were engaged in a religious visit to Friends in those parts. 

Reading, Ninth month 23rd, 1803. 
Beloved Uncle : — I am here on business for my master, 
and supposing a letter may reach thee previous to thy return, 
I can inform thee that thy family were well the day before 
yesterday. Thy two apjireiitices, through fear of the fever, 
had left the city, and John Folwell has offered aunt part of 
his country house, if she wT>uld esteem it proper to remove 
from the city. The yellow fever continues, but not in such 
an alarming manner as in some former years. Four or five 
new cases occur daily, and sometimes more. Father's school 
has been broken up, and my master's family have removed 



1803.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



17 



into the country. Before my departure from Philadelphia 
our meetings were very small ; many Friends having re- 
moved into the country, especially such as lived near the 
water. 

If this letter should reach thee seasonably, wilt thou please ^ 
to remember my love to thy dear fellow-travellers, Anne 
Mifflin and Mary Gilbert. 

Wishing thee Light and Life in thy toilsome journey, and 
the reward of that peace which the world can neither give 
nor take away, I subscribe myself thy affectionate nephew, 

Thomas Kite. 

During this visit in Chester County he had an opportunity, 
for a short time, of accompanying his old friend Peter An- 
drews, who was visiting the meetings there. Under date of 
Mnth month 30th, his mother thus wrote to him. 

Dear Thomas : — * * * We had a small meeting 
this day, but to me it was a good one. We had the company 
of Thomas Scattergood and William Savery, which added 
strength to some, — at least to my mind. Dear Sarah 
Harrison asked for and received a certificate to attend Balti- 
more Yearly Meeting. The loss of her company at this time 
seems trying, the galleries are so stripped. I may say the 
whole house, for there is but here and there a solitary person 
sitting." * * 

Benjamin Kite added this postscript : " As thy mother 
refers to me for an account of thy uncle's letters, I shall 
briefly inform thee, that he seemed nearly worn out riding 
on horseback. He mended as he went on, and seems to be 
preserved in faith and patience, and in measure experiences, 
as he expresses it, the mountains to skip like rams, and the 



18 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1804. 



little hills like lambs. About the 22nd he left Muncy with 
his companions on their way to Cerestown, &c. Anne sup- 
ports her travel like a good soldier, as Ave expected ; poor 
Mary cannot endure so much ; therefore they ride but about 
three miles an hour. In one of the letters thy uncle addresses 
himself to each of his children particularly, giving them very 
seasonable and pertinent advice, which I hope may not be lost. 

Upon the whole I think the sickness rather increases, yet 
but slowdy. Mary Budd has been twice reported to be dead, 
but was alive at noon. Whether she continues alive is doubt- 
ful. If she has gone, I trust it is in innocency. 

The first entry made by Thomas Kite in his diary, after 
his return from the country, is under date of 

Twelfth month 23rd. Eeminded two Friends of the neces- 
sity of silence. Teacher teach thyself. 

30th. Of late I am much given to lightness. Beware of 
vain jesting. 

1804. First month 1st. At three meetings. The first 
two painful, but Life and Light shone in the last. The youth 
were invited and encouraged to take the yoke of Christ upon 
them and learn of Him, the meek and lowly Jesus. 

8th. Evening meeting. The gospel trumpet powerfully 
blown by a dignified instrument. Attend the call ! 

10th. Beware of equivocation : oh, the noble simplicity 
of the truth. 

19th. At meeting. A female revived the promise " Thine 
eye shall see Jerusalem, a quiet habitation." How desirable 
is this solemn covering of quietude and peaceful assurance 
which we cannot command of ourselves ! How refreshing to 
the weary, exercised, drooping mind ! 

20th. How corrupt is my heart ! " Who shall deliver 



1804.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



19 



me from the body of this death ?" My soul, apply to Him 
who was never foiled in battle ! 

24th. When the sense of Divine Life is low in my mind, 
oh may I endeavor to keep low with it, like Mordecai, who 
had been exalted and rode upon the king's liorse ; yea, his 
very enemy proclaimed " This is the man whom the king de- 
lighted to honor," yet after all this, he was willing to descend 
and wait as before, at the king's gate. 

27th. At meeting. Sarah Talbot, a mother in our Israel, 
opened a variety of states with clearness and precision ; ad- 
ministering reproof and invitations to the disobedient, as 
well as encouragement to the honest-hearted. 

Monthly Meeting. A searching season on the Queries. 
Much close advice communicated and the youth invited and 
encouraged to come forward in faithfulness. 

Fourth month. Yearly Meeting. Second-day : the read- 
ing of the Queries occasioned some lively remarks from 
exercised minds, tending to stir up to greater diligence and 
faithfulness in what many deem little things, but which 
were shown materially to affect the cause and testimony of 
Truth ; particularly tale-bearing, and reading pernicious 
publications. 

Third-day. This morning some precious remarks were 
addressed to the youth. Nathan Hunt, in a short, powerful 
testimony, opened the passage of scripture respecting .the 
league of Solomon and Hiram, and the cutting of timber in 
the mountains for the building of the temple at Jerusalem. 
The reading of two memorials appeared to increase the 
solemnity of the meeting. One of them was concerning a 
youth of eighteen. May the example of those young persons 
who have given their names to serve the God of Israel stir 



20 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1804. 



us up, who are too negligent, to greater diligence in making 
our calling and election sure. 

Fifth-day. Meeting for worship. James Simpson ad- 
dressed the youth. His heart seemed drawn forth in affec- 
tionate desire* and his soul appeared earnestly to implore 
that they might indeed become the children of God. He 
entreated those who had been brought out of Egypt, and had 
traversed the wilderness, not to encamp on this side Jordan, 
but to pass over, sword in hand, to subdue their enemies and 
possess the good land which flows with milk and honey, and 
yields abundantly corn, wine and oil. 

Sixth-day. The business of the Yearly Meeting this day 
concluded, having been favored during its several sittings, 
and more especially in the last, to experience the gracious 
condescension of the Great Head of the Church, enabling 
the members present to transact the weighty affairs of Society 
in harmony and love of each other. 

Having written to his esteemed friend Mary Harper com- 
plaining of the malady of sin' which still clave to him, he 
received a reply, from which the following is extracted. 

Through favor I have nearly recovered. Although pretty 
well, as to bodily health, yet not wholly free from the malady 
the*! mentions. It is for want of a right application to the 
Great Physician we remain sickly. I have often thought of 
thee since I last saw thee; and notwithstanding there are 
many snares to entangle the feet of the youth, I trust thou 
wilt be preserved whilst thou keeps up the watch. Remem- 
ber, the Christian life is a continual warfare. * * 

Mary Harper. 



1805.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



21 



Diary continued. 1805. First month 5th. I have lately- 
been betrayed into something very much resembling slander. 
May the disagreeable feelings which this has occasioned, be 
a caution to me, never to speak ill of the absent. 

7th. Favored in our afternoon meeting with the accepta- 
ble company of several ministering Friends, strangers to me. 
Dear Benjamin White, who was also there, stood up with 
these words : " There has something been gathering round 
my mind, which causes me to say, Blessed is God ; blessed in 
himself, and in his Son, Christ Jesus our Lord ; blessed with- 
out us ; complete without us." Proceeding in Gospel au- 
thority in a short testimony, he extended an invitation to the 
youth, beseeching them to close in with those heart-tendering 
visitations with which, in the present day, they are remarka- 
bly favored. Not only immediately in the secret of their 
own minds, but by the ministry of those messengers whom 
the Lord hath qualified and is qualifying and sending forth 
with the offers of salvation through Jesus Christ. 

1805. Second month 24th. At three meetings. In the 
evening Ann Alexander had the Gospel to proclaim with 
power and authority. A secret sense of my own unwilling- 
ness to submit to the restraining influence of the cross of 
Christ, painfully affected my mind this day. 

25th. I am abundantly convinced by repeated experience, 
that there is something alive in my mind, which would, if 
given way to, lead me into self-exaltation. Whilst this 
principle is nourished, I believe I shall never be able so to 
descend into nothingnesss and abasement of soul as accepta- 
bly to worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness. Oh that 
the axe of the Lord's power may be laid to the root of this 
corrupt tree, that I may vigilantly watch against self in all 
its various transformations, and humbly wait to receive 



22 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1805. 



strength from the eternal Fountain of strength to overcome 
all the enemies of my soul's peace ; those of my own house- 
hold, the evil propensities of my own mind, the old inhab- 
itants of the land. Though they may disguise themselves 
and feign to be something else, may I be preserved from 
entering into a league or confederacy with them. Oh that 
my soul may persevere under the Captain of Salvation to 
wage war in righteousness against these spiritual enemies, 
until they are subdued, and my heart can feelingly adopt 
the language " In that day shall this song be sung in the 
land of Judah ; we have a strong city, salvation hath God 
appointed for walls and buhvarks." 

Third month 9th . The morning meeting unusually favored , 
and several testimonies borne in the authority of Truth. 
After meeting I was deficient in neglecting a gentle, secret 
intimation, which is now a cause of grief to my mind. May 
I become more increasingly willing to submit every thing to 
the requirings of the Holy One, and be contented, if it be his 
will, to be considered a fool. This life is, and must be, a 
state of probation ; trials must be encountered, the cross 
must be borne, or we shall never be permitted to participate 
in those eternal glories with w T hich the Lord, the righteous 
Judge, will crown those who have passed through many 
tribulations and have washed their garments in the blood of 
the Lamb ? 

18th. The day before yesterday I was again guilty of 
neglecting to obey a gentle intimation, which has introduced 
my mind into a state of darkness ; so that, though the morn- 
ing meeting, yesterday, was eminently favored with the de- 
scendings of heavenly dew, I w T as poor and dry. The re- 
bellious dwell in a dry land ! Oh that my heart might be 
aroused to greater watchfulness ; that I might gird up the 



1805.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



23 



loins of my mind, watch and be sober, that I may be favored 
with the gift of deep repentance for all my rebellions and 
backslidings, and that I may indeed be made clean ! And 
oh, that in deep humility and prostration of soul, I may at all 
times ascribe the praise of his own works to the Almighty 
Helper of his people, nor presume to attribute any excellence 
to myself, who am, indeed, unworthy of all the mercy and 
all the truth which He has shown to my soul. Forsake me 
not, thou gracious One ! Follow me, O Lord, with the visi- 
tations of thy love ! And though I let go my hold on thee, 
yet be pleased to pity me, a poor worm of the dust, and exer- 
cise thy righteous power for my deliverance from the thral- 
dom of sin. Oh preserve me, and if consistent with thy 
blessed will, create me anew in thy Son Jesus Christ, that 
my heart may be made pure ; a habitation for thy eternal 
Spirit to dwell m ! 

19th. At a favored meeting at the North House. Dear 
George Dillwyn appeared in a short encouraging testimony 
addressed to those who wished to be classed on the Lord's 
side. May those who have enlisted under the banners of the 
Great King, and received his bounty-money, never desert 
the cause, nor presume to advance to battle, without first re- 
ceiving the word of command. 

At dinner at my father's had the acceptable company of 
three dear female laborers in the gospel vineyard. Their 
conversation, and the love I was favored to feel, afforded 
satisfaction to my mind. May I be preserved in humility, 
and become increasingly united to the members, and the 
Holy Head, of the church, by the cementing influence of that 
love which is stronger than death. 

21st. At our week-day meeting George Dillwyn appeared 
instructively in testimony : the difference between an assenter 



24 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1805. 



to the doctrines of Christianity, and a believer in Christ being 
set forth, together with the difference between the false rest 
and that rest which is prepared for the children of God. 

22nd. At uncle John's (Letchworth's) in the evening, 
where was also dear Mary Gilbert. As we sat together in 
the family, silence unexpectedly took place, and after some 
time spent therein, they had each somewhat to communicate. 
May those religious opportunities, with which our Society 
are so remarkably favored, be cause of thankfulness to the 
Author of all good, and the means of our furtherance in the 
way of life and salvation. 

24th. At morning meeting, several Friends favored in 
testimony, and in the afternoon Arthur Howell in a short 
arousing testimony, prophetically declared that a time is ap- 
proaching in which our foundations will be tried ; exhorting 
us to build upon that stone which alone stands sure, and 
which, whoever builds upon, shall never be confounded. 

Fourth month 21st. Last week I attended the several 
sittings of our Yearly Meeting, which was large, and at times 
overshadowed by the wing of Ancient Goodness. In the 
close of the last sitting the presence of the Blessed Master 
being evidently felt, I trust thanksgivings and praises were 
ascribed to his name, in the secret of many minds. 

Fifth month 4th. Being renewedly sensible that weakness 
is mine, and that many impurities still remain in my heart ; 
and that without the aid of Omnipotence I cannot maintain 
the spiritual warfare, I am at this time desirous that I may, 
on all occasions, so descend into the valley of humiliation as 
to receive strength from the Lord, and witness the arms of 
my hands to be made strong by the hands of the mighty God 
of Jacob. May I indeed be concerned to bow beneath the 
rod, and turn with all my heart unto Him who hath ap- 



1805.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



25 



pointed it. Oh that I may experience forgiveness for my 
repeated sins of omission and commission ; that my soul may 
put on Christ Jesus, that I may be found in Him, and ex- 
perience his blessed Spirit to cleanse me from every defile- 
ment of flesh and spirit. The All-seeing One knows what 
lodges within me, — the evil propensities of my fallen nature, 
— all is open before Him. He knows the temptations that 
surround — the cunning devices of the grand adversary. Oh 
that He may renew to my soul the preserving efficacy of his 
divine light and love. Oh that He would be pleased to keep 
me, an unworthy and rebellious servant, from the evil that is 
in the world : that under his direction and influence I may 
be enabled to steer my weak bark through the tempestuous 
ocean of life, and having the blessed Pilot on board, witness 
a safe arrival at the haven of eternal felicity ; that city which 
indeed hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God ! 

7th. Our Quarterly Meeting yesterday was eminently 
favored with the Great Master's presence. In his power and 
authority dear Ann Alexander was opened in the meeting 
for worship. The pure stream of the gospel flowed livingly 
through her, I believe, to the refreshment of many minds. 
In the meeting for business, a Friend was several times 
drawn forth in affectionate entreaties to the young men, en- 
couraging them to persevere in the way of well-doing. Oh 
that the counsel of those deeply baptized messengers of Christ 
may make lasting impressions on our minds. May we ever 
retain in grateful remembrance the many benefits conferred 
upon us by our Almighty Benefactor, who from time to time 
is favoring us with the descendings of heavenly dew, that 
nourishes and refreshes the plant of renown ; the seed of the 
kingdom, which He himself hath implanted in our minds ! 
3 



26 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1805. 



May the praise and glory of his own work be forever ascribed 
unto Him. 

8th. This evening I violated the golden rule of " doing 
unto others as I would they should do unto me," by relating 
a circumstance injurious to the character of another, which 
it would have been better to have buried in oblivion. Oh 
that I may never again be guilty of this vice ! 

In the latter end of the Third month, 1805, John Letch- 
worth removed from the city of Philadelphia, and settled on 
a farm in East Fallowfield, Chester County, Pennsylvania. 
Thomas Kite could not help feeling the loss he sustained by 
being so far separated from his sympathizing friend and rela- 
tive. As the best substitute for personal intercourse he fre- 
quently wrote to his uncle, and many pleasant tokens of 
friendly remembrance passed between them. 

On the 30th of Fifth month, 1805, he wrote to his uncle. 

Dear Uncle:—* * * At our Preparative Meeting 
to-day, six or seven new cases were introduced, and all but 
one sent forward. James Pemberton mentioned on the occa- 
sion the words of our Saviour, " The harvest truly is great, but 
the laborers are few," adding " but this is likely to produce 
a dismal crop !" So by this thou canst judge a little how it 
fares with the rightly concerned among us, of which number, 
on the male side of the house, thou knowest w T e have too few. 
It is cause of wonder to me that persons who appear of exem- 
plary lives, and are diligent, or frequent, attenders of meetings 
for worship, should almost wholly neglect those for discipline. 
It certainly indicates that something is wanting on their 
part. I believe that all those whose minds have been tnerci- ■ 
fully quickened, have work to do, according to their different 
capacities and measures. * * 



1805.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



27 



Immediately after Quarterly Meeting in the Eighth month, 
Thomas Kite having a vacation allowed him by his master, 
accompanied his father on a visit to their relatives in Chester 
County. During their absence from home they attended the 
Quarterly Meeting held at London-grove, and that at Con- 
cord. Soon after their return the yellow fever again made 
its appearance in Philadelphia, but it was of a less malignant 
type than that of some former years, and its victims were 
comparatively few ; still some of the cases were quickly 
fatal, and much alarm, both in the city and county, prevailed 
for a time. 

Thomas Kite to his uncle John Letchworth. 

Philadelphia, Tenth month 21st, 1805. 
Dear Uncle : — Thy letter of yesterday, which I received 
to-day, was very acceptable. The city now wears a more 
cheerful aspect ; our friends have, many of them, returned, 
and others are still returning. Although a few cases of 
malignant fever occur almost daily, yet the general health of 
the city is, I believe, pretty much as usual at this season. 
On Seventh-clay the tents (erected for the sick) were re- 
moved, and the encampment broken up. The hospital on 
the Schuylkill continues open. The Board of Health has 
concluded to grant bills of health as usual from this day 
forward. 

Our meetings have been very small for some time past, 
and they were rendered smaller by the circumstance of five 
persons having the fever in the widow Kitt's house, at the 
corner of Strawberry street and Market street. The widow 
and her two daughters are both dead. The son-in-law has 
recovered, and the girl is recovering. 

I suppose thou hast heard the departure of Mary 



28 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1805. 



Harper as the companion of Anne Mifflin ? I suppose they 
are now at Baltimore. We have heard of a number of 
Friends going thither, so that probably their Yearly Meeting 
has been large. John Hoskins and daughter, Nicholas Wain, 
Richard Mott, Elizabeth Coggeshall, etc. 

Ruth Richardson has been confined, I think, with gout or 
cramp in her stomach, and David Bacon with dropsy. They 
are both much better, which seems a pleasing circumstance ; 
as we can ill afford to part with two of our good folks in such 
low times as these. Low times they have been, at least with 
respect to myself, for some time past. The future, were it 
allowable to indulge such thoughts, might seem a gloomy 
prospect on several accounts : the temptations youth are 
liable to, — some, who ought, from their years and appearance, 
to be patterns of circumspect walking, occasionally staying 
away from meetings, either induced thereto by business or 
political discussions, electioneering, the weight of business at 
Monthly Meeting, the few upright, sound pillars to bear that 
weight, the apparently increasing lightness instead of solidity 
of my own mind, and my unwillingness, yea, obstinate refusal 
to submit to that cross which crucifies us to the world and 
the world to us ; all these, and many more, are copious sub- 
jects for mournful contemplation. Indeed, I think country 
Friends ought to sympathize with the poor citizens in their 
many trials, especially thou, who hast so lately made thy 
escape from amongst us ; but trials, I suppose, thou meets 
with, even in Fallowfield." 

His brother Joseph, a little boy of ten years of age, being 
on a visit to his relatives in Fallowfield, Thomas addressed 
this letter to him. 



1806.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



29 



Philadelphia, Tenth month 21st, 1805. 
Dear Brother : — I thought I might write thee a few 
lines to convince thee I have not forgotten thee. I remem- 
ber thee, and desire that while absent from under thy parents' 
notice, thou may behave with a watchful care and circum- 
spection,' endeavoring to be modest, quiet and obliging, in- 
dustrious in doing what thy friends may have for thee to do, 
and attentive to meetings whenever way is made for thee to 
go. Don't thee remember the words of one of the divine 
songs : 

What blest example do I find 

Writ in the Word of Truth, 
Of children that began to mind 

Religion in their youth. 

Young as thou art, dear brother, thou art not too young to 
be sensible of thy duty, and that when thou doest well thou 
feelest more composed and peaceful than when thou hast be- 
haved amiss. Love and cherish those calm feelings, and in 
order to procure them, be good. Should thou wisely choose 
the better part in childhood, and persevere as thou advances 
in life, the consequence to thyself will be happy indeed, and 
pleasing and comfortable to our dear parents, who have no 
greater joy than to see their children good and virtuous. 
Think on these things when thou goes to bed. 

From thy loving brother. 

Diary. Third month', 1806. Although my mind dur- 
ing several of the preceding months has been much in a state 
of dryness, and to myself I seem to make but little progress 
on my heavenly journey, yet have I cause to acknowledge 
with grateful emotions the kindness of the Father of Mercies 
in touching a deeply baptized minister with a sense of my 



30 MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1806. 



condition, and leading him to administer thereto, not only in 
his public communications, but in private conferences with 
me alone. In these last he has pointed out the peculiar 
trials which await me, and informed me that his prayers had 
been put up for my preservation. Ah, may I, by patiently 
abiding under every dispensation meted out in uneri^ng 
wisdom, be preserved in an humble dependence on that Al- 
mighty Arm of power which alone can lift the mind above 
the propensities of our fallen nature, and enable us to per- 
severe in the Christian life. 

Having written to this Friend, he received the following 
answer : 

Wilmington, Third month 25th, 1806. 
Now my dear friend, Thomas Kite, I can inform thee 
[that] before I received thy very precious letter, — for so it 
is to me — I had been feeling and sympathizing for and with 
thee. I well know thy poor mind is frequently tossed as 
with a tempest, and not comforted. It will be so, I believe, 
for a season. I see clearly, to my comfort, thy tabernacle 
will be surrounded by the guardian angel of thy Heavenly 
Father's presence. Be comforted, and put on strength in 
his blessed name. He will fight all thy battles for thee if 
thou art but really resigned to his divine will. 

Diary. Fourth month 1st. Great is the necessity of 
silence and self-recollection. Oh, may I become increasingly 
conversant therewith, and humbly endeavor in retiredness of 
mind to distinguish the voice of the true Shepherd from every 
presentation and imagination which proceeds from the mys- 
terious workings of the power of darkness. How powerfully 
does the principle of self-love still operate in my mind. How 
often do I let it out after selfish gratifications. How little 



1806.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 31 



ability do I possess of truly loving, worshiping or praising 
that awful Power, whose outstretched arm hath mercifully 
drawn me out of many pollutions, and is willing still further 
to redeem and purify my soul, were I enough resigned in all 
things to his holy will. Oh, may I indeed press after this 
state of patient acquiescence with the decrees of Eternal 
Wisdom. Shall not the Judge of all the earth do right? 

Yearly Meeting. During the course of this week the 
weighty concerns of Society were deliberated upon, and re- 
sulted in much harmony, and the covering of solemnity was 
renewedly felt to be spread over the minds of Friends, under 
which several exercised brethren delivered various concerns 
relating to the subjects deeply interesting to the well-being 
and health of the body. A travail and concern for the right 
education of the youth peculiarly engaged the attention of 
the meeting ; and the frequent collecting families for silent 
retirement of mind, and reading the Scriptures, were pointed 
out as means of preservation and improvement to the youth. 

Fourth month 28th. Second-day morning. The Yearly 
Meeting closed. It has been an interesting aud favored 
season. The revised Discipline, which for two years has 
been under care of a committee, being now finished by them, 
was agreed to, and directed to be printed. 

Fifth month 12th. Yesterday morning at our Market 
Street Meeting, Nathan Yarn all bore a short testimony. He 
appeared much affected, and I trust sympathy and unity were 
felt for and with him therein. May he be preserved. 

13th. Oh, that I were enabled wholly and unreservedly 
to give up all ! Oh, this unsubjected will ! How it hinders 
my access to the Fountain of Good. 

On the 16th day of the Seventh month, this year, he be- 



32 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1806. 



came of age. In writing in aftertime of his early life, lie 
says : " During my minority I twice had the privilege of 
accompanying, for a short time, Friends who were travelling 
in the work of the ministry, which afforded me some sea- 
sons of profit. From the time of the memorable visitation 
until the close of my apprenticeship, I endeavored conscien- 
tiously to discharge my duty to my employer." 



CHAPTER II.— 1806-1808. 

THOMAS KITE JOINS IN PARTNERSHIP WITH HIS FATHER — 
MEETS WITH ELIZABETH BARNARD, AND IS MARRIED TO 
HER. 

Benjamin Johnson was so well satisfied with the con- 
duct of his late apprentice, and so assured of his correct 
moral principles and good business habits, that he offered 
him a share in his business. This offer Thomas Kite accepted, 
and remained in partnership during the latter part of the 
year 1806. In the Eighth month of that year, haying busi- 
ness to attend to in the State of Delaware and the eastern 
shore of Maryland, he concluded to accompany his father to 
Chester County, and there seek a means of conveyance to 
enable him to accomplish his proposed journey. Whilst 
absent he wrote to his mother and sister Abi. 

Elkton, Md., Eighth month 7th, 1806. 
Dear Mother and Sister : — We left Philadelphia on 
Third-day morning last (Eighth month 5th). We reached 



1806.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



33 



grandfather's about 10 o'clock at night ; left aunt Sarah 
there and proceeded on to uncle Nathan [Walton's], where 
we arrived about 11, and got to bed about 12. Next morn- 
ing I went over to Abraham Romans, who kindly offered 
me a horse to pursue my contemplated journey. [That day] 
father and I went to London-grove Monthly Meeting, he in 
uncle Nathan's light wagon, I with Abraham Romans. 
Uncle John [Letchworth] opened a concern which had 
impressed his mind, under which he believes it to be his 
duty to attend the ensuing Yearly Meeting at Baltimore, 
some meetings belonging to the Quarterly Meeting of Balti- 
more, the Monthly Meeting of York, and some meetings on 
the way. A number of Friends expressed their unity with 
his prospect, and a committee was appointed to prepare a 
certificate. 

Fifth-day. This morning, after breakfast, I started from 
uncle Nathan's. The country, on leaving his house, very soon 
has a more level appearance, not many high hills to be seen 
except the Octoraro, which at a few miles distance from the 
road appeared to extend in a range not much differing from 
a north and south direction. Dined at Nottingham, in a 
public house, and proceeding, crossed the Maryland line. 
The land from West Fallowfield to within a few miles of 
Elkton appeared poor, and poorly cultivated. Since dinner 
there has been several appearances of gusts, and I was caught 
in the rain. * * * About 6 o'clock I reached this town, 
which is situated on Elk River, a stream navigable within 
a mile, and emptying into the Bay of Chesapeake. It is the 
capital of Cecil County, contains a jail and court-house; and 
a number of respectable buildings. It was very sickly last 
fall, but some marshes in the neighborhood having been 
drained, it is not so much so this year. Whilst I write the 



34 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1806. 



rain falls considerably, and it thunders. Some of the claps 
have been very loud ; but a blessing attends, rain being very 
desirable from the dryness of the ground. 

Chester Town, Kent County, Maryland, 

Eighth month 9th, Seventh-day. 

On Fifth-day evening, in one of the streets of Elkton, I 
saw a black lad, born without arms, isext morning, seeing 
him again as he was sitting on a bench at the door of a house, 
I entered into conversation with him, He can read and 
write, and his master maintains him. I threw a trifle of 
money on the ground for him ; he picked it up with his 
toes, threw it up, caught it on the back of his foot, laid it on 
the bench, took it up with his teeth, and twisting his body 
into such a position as opened his pocket, let the money fall 
into it. At my request, he with a stick wrote, my name on 
the ground. All this he performed with apparent ease and 
great dexterity. 

Yesterday, Sixth-day, I left Elkton, and crossing Elk 
Creek, one of two streams, the confluence of which forms 
the Elk River, I passed the Maryland line into Delaware. 
This morning I crossed one of the branches or feeders of the 
proposed canal for uniting the waters of the Delaware and 
Chesapeake, and arrived at Glasgow, or Akinstown, a sickly 
village. * * * From thence to Middletown ; thence to 
Warwick, [in Maryland], a miserable looking village, and 
proceeded to the " Head of Sassafras." This last-named vil- 
lage derived its name froin several streams uniting near it 
and forming the head of Sassafras Eiver, which is navigable 
within a few miles of the place. I lodged there at a Friend's 
house, and proceeded this morning to Georgetown Cross 
Roads, a small village ; thence to Chester-town, the capital of 



1806.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



35 



Kent County, where I now am. This place is situated on 
Chester River, which is a navigable stream, wider, I believe 
than the Schuylkill at Philadelphia. The town contains a 
court-house, jail, market-house, several places of worship, and 
near it is a large house built for a college, but not so occu- 
pied at present. 

St. George's Hundred, New Castle County, Delaware. 
Eighth month 11th, Second-day. After writing the pre- 
ceding, just as I was going to bed, I was taken with a chill 
and fever, and passed a very trying night. The thought of 
being sick so far from home was afflicting. In the morning 
I called on a physician, who prescribed medicine, advised me 
to lay by till the fever left me, and then return immediately 
to Pennsylvania, as the sickly season had commenced. I 
rode accordingly slowdy out of Chester-town into the country 
about five miles, put up at a farm-house, and took the medi- 
cine. During its operation I felt very unwell, but in the 
afternoon the fever abated considerably, and I rode on to the 
head of Sassafras River, and lodged at the house of a kind 
Friend, where I was favored with a good night's rest. I have 
ridden about 13 miles this morning, feel much better than 
yesterday, and expect a few 7 day's residence in Chester County 
will render me strong and hearty as usual. 

Thomas Kite returned home by way of Wilmington, and 
attended Concord Quarterly Meeting before reaching Phila- 
delphia. 

Although in partnership with Benjamin Johnson, Thomas 
Kite was not satisfied that it was his proper place. His 
father was grow ing old, had become temporarily very hard 
of hearing, and his school duties, for the right performance 
of which this had partly unfitted him, had become irksome 



36 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1806. 



to him. Benjamin thought the time for his release from 
teaching was drawing near, and both he and his son believed 
it would be right for them to enter into the book selling 
and publishing business together. After much deliberation 
thereon, they signed articles of co-partnership on the 2nd of 
the Twelfth month of this year, although they did not engage 
in business for several weeks thereafter. 

Benjamin Kite having informed his brother John Letch- 
worth of his prospect of entering into business with his son, 
John felt concerned to address a letter of caution to his 
nephew, w T ho he w r ell knew 7 would be the active business 
member of the firm. 

East Fallowfield, Eleventh month 30th, 1806. 

Dear Nephew : — * * * Thy father hints that he has 
a prospect of entering into business with thee. This is a 
subject not new, I believe, to him ; therefore I hope, indeed 
I expect, it has been well weighed. The calling he is at 
present in is not likely to yield much to lay by for those 
days of feebleness, when the lighting on of a grasshopper may 
seem a burden. 

I w as going to hint that thou hast served a regular appren- 
ticeship, and hast some experience in the store, hast a pretty 
large acquaintance, and perhaps by this time large ideas of 
doing business ; for youth is violent. Mournful instances of 
this has your city produced. Thy father styles himself, and, 
perhaps, justly, timid. Now I wish, if there be any portion 
of rashness in thy composition, that his timidity may act as 
a just counterpoise, that so you may get along with reputation 
and peace. My desire is that if he should, in the course of 
your business, not be willing to go all lengths thou wouldst 
wish, thou shouldst not impute all to timidity, or his not 
understanding the business. Remember he has wisdom, age 



1806.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



37 



and experience on his side, which ought to operate strongly 
to temper thy zeal for doing much. Ah ! Thomas, do not be 
a dasher, but let the grave counsel of thy father have its due 
place, and then, as Franklin describes the New England 
teams, two pulling down the hill and two up, lets the wagon 
down in safety. That you may thus conduct, is the desire of 
thy affectionate uncle, John Letchworth. 

To this letter Thomas Kite thus replied : 

Philadelphia, Twelfth month 11th, 1806. 

Dear Uncle : — Thy letter, and the concern it expresses 
for my welfare, w T ere both agreeable, and I hope thou wilt 
never omit communicating what thou may apprehend will 
prove beneficial to me. Youth, as thou observes, is rash, and 
is moreover oftentimes exposed to temptations which render 
the advice and counsel of those w 7 ho have trodden the slip- 
pery paths before us, useful to those who are just upon the 
threshhold of manhood. 

Independently of forming an establishment which may 
afford myself a livelihood, can my attention be turned to a 
more proper object than to relieve my beloved father from 
that laborious and irksome employment so peculiarly unsuita- 
ble in the evening of life, and from w 7 hich his mind feels 
very much relieved ? As he is scarcely a day quite w r ell, 
teaching hangs as a burden upon him. To all this it may be 
added that his family is increasingly expensive, and neces- 
sarily so, whilst his business is scarcely adequate to bear it. 
These are in part my motives for entering upon that business 
to w 7 hich thou alludes, in the prosecution of which I desire 
we may do nothing which will bring reproach upon our pro- 
fession. I hope, in conformity to thy advice, to pay proper 
attention to the cautions of my father, and not to undertake 
anything of magnitude that has not his concurrence. * * 



38 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1806. 



In the spring of 1807 Benjamin Kite gave up his school 
and devoted himself to his new occupation. The firm had 
not much capital ; the father put in a small sum, the saving 
of thirty years of quiet, industrious attention to teaching, and 
the son brought business habits, activity and enterprise. 
With much constitutional timidity, Thomas Kite had in the 
commencement of his business too earnest a desire to extend 
it. Some severe lessons which he soon received, were of 
essential service to him. The most important one was this : 
A person, married to a rich woman, whose property was. 
however, secured from his creditors, persuaded Thomas, as a 
mutual accommodation to them in their business, to exchange 
promissory notes to a considerable amount. This placed in 
the hands of each a capital, which was used to extend their 
publishing operations and increase their stock. Objects, 
which promised to inexperience advantages which were 
never realized. The man soon failed, and leaving the new 
firm to pay his and their own notes, amounting to more than 
all their capital, he quietly retired behind his wife's secured 
patrimony and lived in affluence, whilst those he had 
wronged had to strain every nerve to collect sufficient to 
meet the notes as they became due, and maintain their credit. 

In the latter end of the Seventh month, 1807, Thomas 
Kite visited New York, with many of the cities and towns of 
New England, and established business connections with the 
principal publishing houses there. On his return to Phila- 
delphia his father paid a visit to their relations and friends 
in Western Pennsylvania and Ohio. 

Thomas was fond of being in the company of those whom 
he esteemed of religious experience, from whom he could 
hope to derive instruction in righteousness. One of his 
visiting places during the latter part of his apprenticeship 



1806.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



39 



and for some years after, was at the house of Emmor Kimber, 
who was then esteemed, and doubtless was, a valuable minis- 
ter of the gospel of Christ Jesus. In Emmor's family he 
became acquainted with Elizabeth Barnard, a pious young 
woman, who had been educated an Episcopalian, had joined 
the Baptists, but being favored to see beyond the adminis- 
tration of outward rites, and convinced of the doctrines of 
the Society of Friends, had been admitted into membership 
amongst them. 

To her his mind was drawn in affectionate feeling, and be- 
lieving it was according to the will of his Heavenly Father, 
he, with the consent and approbation of his earthly parents, 
made proposals of marriage to her, which were accepted. 

She was a native of Wilmington, in the State of Delaware, 
and appears to have derived spiritual benefit from the minis- 
try of Joshua Maule, from whom, after her removal to Phila- 
delphia in the spring of 1806, she received several letters. 
One of them we insert. 

Wilmington, 3rd of Seventh month, 1806. 
Dear Friend : — I received a few lines from thee in- 
forming of thy situation, which was very comfortable to me. 
When I read them my mind was humbled and broken into 
tenderness by the fresh manifestations of Divine Good, 
which we have very unworthily, and yet largely partaken 
of. May our minds be deeply humbled under a sense of it , 
that we may be qualified to render grateful acknowledg- 
ments to Him, who has been thus mindful of us, and helped 
us when we had no power to help ourselves. How, dear 
Elizabeth, can we better express our gratitude than by yield- 
ing unreserved obedience to the Divine will, however it 
may be in the cross, remembering it is not every one that 
saith Lord! Lord! that shall enter into the kingdom of 



40 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1808. 



heaven, but he that doeth the will of the Father in heaven. 
I have often thought of thee, since thou left us, with secret 
satisfaction, and am solicitous that not only thou, but I, may 
be qualified to adopt the language in humble resignation of 
mind — " Lord, I will follow^ thee whithersoever thou goest." 
Then I believe we shall not only experience the way made 
plain before us, but Ave shall be strengthened to walk therein. 
Though at first it may seem to be a strait and narrow way, 
yet it will be experienced to be a way of pleasantness and a 
path of peace, by all those who become acquainted with it. 
* * James Brobson buried his daughter Sally last week ; ■ 
a very affecting case. A flower nipped in its bloom, respect- 
ing whom it may be said, " how T has beauty fallen !" It 
seems to be an additional testimony that " all flesh is as grass, 
and the goodliness of man as the flower of the field." Though 
the grass withereth and the flower fadeth as soon as it is in 
bloom, yet the Word of the Lord endureth forever. I do 
not mean the Scriptures, they are not the Word. I mean 
that quickening Word of Life, that more sure Word of 
Prophecy unto which w T e shall do well if w T e take heed, as 
unto a light shining in a dark place. It is able to build us 
up and give us an inheritance amongst all them that are 
sanctified. That w T e may have this truth realized in our own 
experience, is the desire of thy friend, 

Joshua Maule. 

The marriage of Thomas Kite aud Elizabeth Barnard was 
accomplished on the 30th day of the Third month, 1808, at 
the meeting-house of Friends in Pine Street. David Sands, 
who was then in Philadelphia on a religious visit, was at the 
meeting, and dined with the wedding company. 

Thomas Kite, in a short account he left of his life, thus 
speaks of this marriage connection. 



1808.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



41 



" On the 30th day of the Third month, 1808, 1 was married 
to Elizabeth Barnard, a pious young woman, who, after hav- 
ing been brought up in the Episcopal way of worship, had, 
w T hen quite young, been induced to attend the meetings of 
the Baptists, and to submit to the outward rite from which 
they have their name. For a time she walked in communion 
with them, but not experiencing that inward satisfaction she 
longed for, she was at length convinced of the principles of 
Truth as held by us, began to attend our meetings, and after 
a time of serious attention to the gradual unfoldings of 
Heavenly light, was joined in membership with us, about the 
period when my acquaintance with her commenced. I believe 
she continued faithful to her Divine Guide, and we were 
measurably favored together with the incomes of heavenly 
love." 



CHAPTER III.— 1808-1811. 

CALL TO THE MINISTRY DEATH OF ELIZABETH KITE 

HIS TESTIMONY CONCERNING HER. 

Thomas Kite was now married, and in his new connection, 
with unwonted cares he experienced an accession of unwonted 
comforts. He was affectionate in his feelings, and was well 
qualified by his natural disposition to promote domestic hap- 
piness, and to enjoy it. His conversational powers were good, 
and he had a fund of interesting incidents in his memory, 
ready to come forth in their proper place to enliven his dis- 
course. Above everything he appeared desirous that the 
members of his household should be seeking the Lord for 
4 



42 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1809. 



themselves, and endeavoring to grow up in good likeness 
before Him. His letters manifest this concern, and also 
pleasingly set forth the strength of his affectionate feelings. 

Soon after the Yearly Meeting in 1808, Elizabeth Kite 
visited her relatives and friends in her native place. While 
she was absent her husband addressed the following note to 
her. 

Philadelphia, Fifth month 6th, 1808. 
My Dear : — Home has lost part of its charms since 
thou left me, yet considering our loss, we are tolerably com- 
fortable. Eobert L. Pittfield and Elizabeth Folwell accom- 
plished their marriage yesterday at our meeting, and were 
addressed in the language of encouragement by Samuel 
Smith and David Sands, the latter of whom took leave of 
Friends. Farewell, my love, to-morrow I hope to see thee. 

A few cases of highly malignant bilious fever occurred in 
Philadelphia in the latter end of the summer of 1809, and 
occasioned some alarm to the inhabitants. At this time, 
about the middle of the Eighth month, Elizabeth Kite and 
her little charge retreated for a few weeks from the city to 
the house of Stephen Morris at Evesham, New T Jersey. Whilst 
she was there her husband frequently wrote to her. In one 
of his letters, dated Eighth month 26th, he says : 

"As I mentioned yesterday, the city continues healthy, 
indeed I question much whether a case has been known 
within a week that looked like yellow fever. Home seems 
to me very lonely, deprived as I am of the society of her 
whom I love beyond all others ; but believing the country to 
be useful to our dear child, I am willing to submit to the 
deprivation for her sake. Beside, I trust, thy health will 
be improved, which is another motive for resignation." 



1810.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



43 



Looking back to this period of his life and business, Thomas 
Kite afterwards wrote thus : "In the prosecution of my out- 
ward concerns I had many trials and temptations, yet I was 
favored to keep the love of Truth so far predominant, as never 
to neglect my religious meetings, and though at times much 
discouraged, and after my marriage full of fears lest I should 
not be able to support my family reputably, yet through the 
Lord's unmerited goodness I was not only permitted to dis- 
charge my engagements with a good degree of punctuality, 
but never knew the want of the necessaries and common com- 
forts of life ; so that I have abundant cause to acknowledge 
to the truth of Christ's promise, Seek ye the kingdom of God, 
and all these things we have need of, whilst in this state of 
being, shall be added." 

Thomas Kite was passing through many inward conflicts 
to fit him for the work of the ministry, to which he was 
sensible he was called, yet he made no note of his exercises 
from Fifth month 13th, 1806, until the beginning of the 
Fourth month, 1810, shortly after his first public appearance 
as a minister. 

Diary. Fourth month. I have for several years believed, 
if I kept my place, it would be required of me to bear testi- 
mony to the Good Hand that has delivered me out of Egyptian 
darkness. This concern has latterly increased upon me, so 
that I have sometimes thought a few words required of me 
in religious opportunities, to which I have several times given 
up in private, but not in public until the 20th of the Third 
month, when at Frankford I expressed a small matter that 
had rested on my mind, in great fear. Oh may I be pre- 
served near the Divine Guide. 

His friends had, some of them, been dipped into sympathy 



44 MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1810. 



with him, in the prospect of his being called to this awful 
work, and the day of his appearance at Frankford, his rela- 
tive and friend Mary Harper had exhorted him to faithful- 
ness to the requirings of duty in this line. He spoke on the 
text in the Apocrypha, Ecclesiasticus ii. 10 : " Look at the 
generations of old and see ; did ever any trust in the Lord 
and was confounded ? or did any abide in his fear, and was 
forsaken ? or whom did He ever despise, that called upon 
Him?" 

Diary. Fourth month 4th. Attended Byberry Meeting ; 
believed myself commissioned to sound an alarm to some, 
who, I apprehended, had not many years to live, and who 
were not yet prepared to receive the inscription of " Holiness 
unto the Lord." 

21st. Our Yearly Meeting concluded yesterday. During 
the course of this meeting Friends have been preserved in a 
good degree of quietude and harmony, and although the 
power of Truth in the meetings of Discipline appeared not 
to be so eminently manifested as at some other times, it was, 
upon the whole, a comfortable season. 

Fifth month 13th. Oh that I may be preserved in hum- 
ble, patient waiting in the deeps, nor presume to offer strange 
fire on the Lord's altar. Oh may I never step forth, unless 
the Shepherd of Israel puts forth and goes before me. Under 
an impressive sense of my insufficiency for the awful work, 
may I be increasingly incited to abide in the Vine, to receive 
the circulation of sap from the Root, which will indeed keep 
the plant alive in my soul, and enable it to bear fruit to the 
honor and praise of the everlasting Husbandman, who indeed 
is worthy of the praise of his own work, now and forever, 
amen. 



1810.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



45 



Sixth month 11th. Attended Haddonfield Monthly Meet- 
ing. Found peace in endeavoring to discharge my mind of 
a concern for parents, near the close of a meeting for business. 

Having taken his wife to Wilmington, he left her there to 
spend a short time with her friends and relatives, and re- 
turning to Philadelphia, met with the adventure described 
in the following letter. 

Phi.adelphia, Sixth month 21st, 1810. 
My Dear: — I sit down in the cool of the morning to 
give thee an account of our progress yesterday. The morn- 
ing was fine aiid a breeze rendered the ride agreeable, so that 
we came along pleasantly enough until we arrived at Chester 
creek, where, the tide being low, the bank presented an 
abrupt descent. As we were going down to the flat the 
driver says one of the horses was frightened, stepped on one 
side, and the horses and stage were turned over, the horses 
into the creek, the stage at the edge of the water. We were 
somewhat alarmed at our awkward situation. I crawled out 
into the mud, and Rebecca Maule followed, but being assisted 
did not get so muddy as I. We went up to the tavern and 
changed our clothing, the tavern-keeper's wife lending me 
some of her husband's clothes. I felt most concerned re- 
specting Rebecca, but she appears to have sustained no in- 
jury, and stood the whole ride very well. After we were 
thoroughly dried, it appearing that the roof only of the stage 
was damaged, we proceeded on our journey and reached home 
about two o'clock. 

To his wife. Sixth month 22nd. Yesterday, Fifth-day, 
was Preparative Meeting. James Sellers' request to become 
a member of Society was introduced, and a committee ap- 



46 



MEMOIK OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1810. 



pointed. We had the company of Mary Morton, who was 
exercised in supplication. * * * Farewell, my dear, 
mayest thou be preserved in the way of duty, the path of 
Divine appointment, whether rejoicing be thy portion or 
affliction thy lot, and if thou art favored to feel ability to do 
so, pray for thy poor husband, that he may be kept from the 
snare of the devourer. 

Sixth month 26th. We have another instance of the un- 
certainty of life, in the removal of Thomas Annesly. He 
appeared in usual health on Seventh-day evening and died 
in the night. His remains were interred on First-day even- 
ing attended by a large concourse of Friends and others. I 
have felt poor and low since thou left me, but I desire to be 
contented with my allotment. In a little time all our trials 
will be over. May we then be enabled so to improve the 
time and opportunities afforded us as to lay up for ourselves 
a good foundation, that when our earthly tabernacles fail we 
may be received into everlasting habitations. 

Diary. Seventh month 31st. During the present month 
I have suffered loss from reading books not written by per- 
sons under the influence of Truth. Too much talking has 
been indulged in, and something of slander. I have felt 
convictions for the last. Something of a waspish temper, 
an additional evidence that my will is not thoroughly sub- 
jected to the principle of life. Lord ! pardon my sins. In 
writing a letter this day, I mentioned a text of Scripture, 
and made observations of a religious nature. I am fearful 
they were not seasoned with salt, as I felt afterwards bur- 
dened. Went to Js orth Meeting. Some observations were 
expressed on the necessity of faith in God, and in the pro- 



1810.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 47 



priety of all his dispensations. I feel very feeble ; may I 
be preserved watchful, patient and humble. 

Eighth month 1st. Some small symptoms of anger in my 
mind, not much apparent to others. 

2nd. Spent this day without much cause of self-reproach. 

5th. In the morning meeting the* people were invited to 
Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, to-day and forever. After- 
noon meeting proved a low T season. I was deficient in patient 
waiting. 

8th. Having in a jocular way repeated a passage of Scrip- 
ture, felt sorry for it. 

12th. Morning meeting : an exercise attended on account 
of some of the younger class ; after disburdening my mind I 
felt poor and weak. Afternoon meeting : dull, and a wan- 
dering mind much prevalent in me, against which I did not 
war so earnestly as I ought to have done. 

13th. Paid a visit of a sociable nature ; but not being 
rightly timed, I had little satisfaction. In the evening a 
pleasanter one. 

14th. Was thoughtful about attending a country meeting, 
but after a solid conference with a Friend on the subject, was 
easy to omit it. 

19th. At morning meeting ; an opening, but without 
sufficient life to be uttered. That which dieth of itself shall 
ye not eat. 

26th. Last evening, wishing to give some advice to a 
particular person, I enlarged somewhat in the way of preach- 
ing but without the requisite qualification : it has since been 
burdensome to my mind. 

30th. Returned last night from a visit to my child at 
Wilmington. During my absence from home I engaged in 



48 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1810. 



political conversation with a friend, to the wounding of my 
mind. 

Ninth month 2nd. Yesterday, by gratifying my inclina- 
tion, introduced my mind into weakness. Felt naked and 
wounded in morning meeting, yet some desires for a thorough 
purgation. In an opportunity of retirement with my family 
after dinner, some serious thoughts were present, which I 
dropped amongst them. 

9th. Returned yesterday from a journey to New York, 
during which, for want of more indwelling, my mind has 
been too much outward and dissipated. Whilst I was at 
New York our Friend Benjamin White arrived, returning 
home from a religious visit to Friends in Great Britain. In 
the same vessel with him came Susanna Horne, on a like 
errand to this country. May she be instrumental to arouse 
the careless, comfort the feeble-minded, and enabled to pro- 
claim liberty to the captive. 

At morning meeting: some considerations with thoughts 
of expression, but wishing to have the prospect weighed in 
the balance, was easy in silence. Afternoon : fear I was not 
earnest enough in spirit after retirement of mind. 

10th. Spoke hastily on finding something in the line of 
business had not been accomplished according to my wish. 
Called to see a sick young man. Dropped a word of en- 
couragement, but have feared it had not sufficient savor. 
Tried of late with poverty. May every dispensation prove 
a means of my refinement. 

16th. On looking back over the few past days I find cause 
to deplore a want of greater watchfulness. In the morning 
meeting an impression concerning individuals, but as I was 
making ready another stepped in before me. The matter 



1810.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



49 



continued after he sat down, but the meeting soon closing, I 
did not unburden myself. 

27th. Fear I have been rather too much engrossed for 
several days past, with the world. A few evenings since at 
a meeting of a society of a benevolent nature, too active in dis- 
cussing and promoting measures relative thereto. Yesterday 
at Pine Street and to-day at our Monthly Meeting somewhat 
favored in silence. In the evening, dear Susanna Home had 
a precious opportunity with us of the young classes of So- 
ciety, and those of similar ages, not in membership, who 
attend our meetings. Invitation and caution were handed 
forth, and a covering of solemity prevailed. May the Lord 
alone be praised ! 

30th. At morning meeting : an impression of duty to 
stand up, but many appearances being made, I was silent. 
Hope the opportunity was not entirely unprofitable. 

Tenth month 5th. Yesterday our adjourned Monthly 
Meeting. First meeting my mind engaged in religious con- 
siderations, but fear they were not in the pure openings of 
Truth, but rather the fruit of my own cogitations. In the 
meeting for discipline I might have been easy with being 
less active in words. Oh for a more deep indwelling under 
that exercise of mind which is begotten by the Truth in all 
our meetings of worship and discipline. 

14th. May I be preserved patient and humble, nor pre- 
sume to burden the living by w^ords without life. I fear that 
self has had too great influence, although I was not suffi- 
ciently sensible of it. Oh that I may be enabled to abide 
low, and experience all my sins, whether of omission or com- 
mission, whether proceeding from the activity of self, or the 
transformations of the power of darkness, washed away in 
the blood of the Lamb. The desire of my heart is, that every 



50 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1810. 



dispensation may, by the Lord's sanctifying power, be made 
to work together for my real good, and furtherance in the 
way of peace. May I be enabled to cast down imaginations 
and every high thing, and simply wait upon the Lord Most 
Holy in the nothingness of self in prostration of mind. Oh 
Holy Being, forsake me not. 

21st. On a review of the past week I am persuaded my 
mind has been too much outward ; intent on worldly things, 
and little or no qualification experienced to aspire after 
heavenly treasures. 

Towards the close of the Ninth month, Elizabeth Kite fell 
down a flight of stairs, and although not at the time conscious 
of receiving much injury, it proved, in the opinion of her 
medical attendant, the cause of her death. Her second child, 
William, was born on the 25th of the Tenth month, soon 
after which event her health rapidly sunk. Her husband 
thus describes her close in his Diary. 

Eleventh month 16th. My dear wife is very ill. The 
physicians give no hope of her recovery. She has been a 
precious companion to me, and has been a spiritual worshiper. 
I trust,, through the mercy of her Almighty Saviour, if re- 
moved at this season, it will be to a mansion of rest. Oh 
that I may be permitted so to experience the cleansing opera- 
tions of Divine love as to witness a qualification to join her, 
when the appointed time comes, in celebrating the depth of 
his love, who remains to be the Father of the fatherless, the 
Judge of the widow, the refuge of the afflicted, and the salva- 
tion of his people. 

19th. My dear companion was this morning removed to 
her everlasting resting place. Oh may I be favored to get 



1810.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 51 



deep enough to discover whether it is not for ray correction 
that this afflictive dispensation has befallen me. May I kiss 
the rod and turn to Him who has appointed it, saying " The 
Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away, blessed be the 
name of the Lord !" 

20th. The body of my dear wife was this day interred. 
The evening after her departure, in testimony, Isaac Paxson 
expressed his belief of her qualification for entering into the 
heavenly kingdom, as also in the same opportunity, Emm or 
Kimber. At the grave, Thomas Scattergood had to testify 
his belief that she had stood in her allotment, and was safely 
landed, " Where the wicked cease from troubling and the 
weary soul forever is at rest." In the evening, in a season 
"of silent retirement in my family, with some sympathizing 
Friends, my mind was mercifully made quiet and resigned. 
Emmor Kimber addressed the throne of grace in supplication 
for the company present, and thanksgivings for mercies past ; 
and in particular that my mind had been favored with resigna- 
tion, as well as the minds of other near connections of the 
beloved deceased. His prayer was that our language might 
continue to be " It is the Lord, let Him do what seemeth 
Him good." 

The following short testimony concerning his deceased 
wife was found among Thomas Kite's papers. 

" Some particulars respecting my dear wife. — Elizabeth 
Barnard was born the 12th of Second month, 1786, at Wil- 
mington. She was, when young, tinctured with that vanity 
to which childhood and youth are incident, yet through the 
merciful kindness of the Lord she was early visited with a 
sense of his controversy against sin, and earnest desires were 
begotten in her for deliverance from its bondage. In this state 



52 



MEMO IE OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1810. 



of mind she attended the religious meetings of the Baptists, 
and having submitted to the initiatory rite practised by them, 
became a member of their communion. She continued in 
this way a few years, and w T as considered a young woman of 
exemplary conduct : but her mind soon became uneasy with 
some outward observances practised by that people, feeling 
them to be lifeless and formal, and being earnestly desirous 
of an establishment in a state of greater purity, she was 
mercifully favored with a more full discovery of the means 
of salvation, the grace of our Blessed Bedeemer, and humbly 
submitting to its inward operations, she experienced a gradual 
growth in Christian stability. 

She removed to this city in the early part of 1806, and 
became one of the family of Emmor Kirnber ; soon after 
which, from a prospect of religious duty, and a thorough 
convincement of the inward principle professed by Friends, 
and the testimonies flowing from it, she requested the care, 
and became a member of the Southern District Monthly 
Meeting. 

In the spring of 1808 she was united to me in marriage. 
She w r as a truly valuable wife, fulfilling her domestic duties 
with assiduous attention, and tenderly sympathizing with me 
under trials and discouragements. Xot long after our mar- 
riage she passed through a close exercise of mind for several 
months under- a suspension of that sensible enjoyment of 
Divine good she had before experienced. This led her into 
close searching of heart, with earnest desires that in a married 
state she might be favored to serve her great Master as ac- 
ceptably as she had done whilst single. Although she was 
particularly cautious of expressing much concerning her re- 
ligious experience, I have reason to believe that He who 
knew the sincerity of her heart, was again pleased to restore 



1810.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



53 



to her ' the joys of his salvation/ which produced a peaceful 
serenity of mind, which she was mostly favored with after- 
wards, during the short residue of her life. 

During the year immediately preceding her decease, she 
several times expressed a belief that her continuance in this 
life would not be long. About five weeks before her last 
confinement, she had a fall, which, although no very serious 
apparent effects immediately followed, was supposed to have 
occasioned an inward injury. Soon after the birth of her 
second child she became very ill. She called me to her bed- 
side and affectionately addressed me, appearing desirous that 
she might be favored with an evidence how her illness would 
terminate. I think it was the next day that she again spoke 
to me, informing me that she now believed that her departure 
was near, and endeavored in the most tender manner to pre- 
pare my mind to be resigned to the event. After this she 
was for several days mostly delirious, but there is cause to 
think that for a few days before her close she had the pos- 
session of her understanding, although unable to speak in- 
telligibly. She was preserved throughout her illness in a 
remarkable degree of patience, and though her suffering 
must have been great, she uttered no complaint. Having 
lain in stillness for several days, on the 19th of Eleventh 
month, 1810, without moving hand or foot she gently breathed 
her last, and her spirit departed, I dare not doubt, to its pre- 
pared mansion of rest. 

My dear wife Avas a woman of rather a hidden character, 
more in substance than in show ; exceedingly devoted in 
heart to what she believed to be her religious duty, and 
cautious in examining the evidence thereof. My wish for 
myself and my dear children is, that we may be willing to 
submit to the operation of that Holy Power which was her 



54 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1810. 



preservation, and be enabled to walk, as she did, in humble 
circumspection before the Lord, that so we may experience 
Him to be our guide and refuge through the probations of 
time, our hope in the hour of death, and our crown and 
diadem in everlasting inheritance. Thomas Kite." 

Various letters of condolence and sympathy were received 
from the friends of the family on the occasion of the decease 
of Elizabeth. John Letchworth says in one from him : " I 
think I feel for Thomas ; he is young to be left in a state of 
widowhood, and it is pleasing to find that he felt a degree of 
resignation to the stroke. As we believe these things do not 
happen by chance, it may put him upon examining in the 
secret of his own heart ' For what good end is it, that just as 
I have begun to be comfortably fixed, with the prospect of 
a rising offspring, who probably might be the support of my 
declining years, that I am thus stripped of her in whom I 
could confide, who was my comfort in trouble, and the par- 
taker of my joy, my adviser in difficulty, my anchor when 
running too fast V I believe Young's idea was correct when 
he wrote — 

1 When heaven would kindly set us free, 

And earth's enchantments end, 
It takes the most effectual means, 
And robs us of a friend.' " 

John Heald, a beloved minister, residing at Fairfield, 
Columbiana County, Ohio, thus wrote on the subject to 
Benjamin Kite. 

" What thou mentioned with regard to thy son Thomas 
being left in a solitary way, I notice with attention, and, I 
trust, with a measure of affectionate sympathy ; but I do not 
know that I can send anything that can help to bear up a 



1811.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



55 



drooping mind, or dry the tears of grief. He is, no doubt, 
deeply tried. He does not know for what purpose ; that lies 
hid. I shall only observe that I have heard, he has, for some 
time, made a public appearance. I may here observe that 
among the many who set out well in this way, few hold out 
to the end. Some soon turn aside ; some flourish for awhile 
and then forsake the cause ; some at different points fall 
from a favored state, where unnumbered blessings were in 
jDOSsession, or near at hand, into an impoverished, lamentable 
condition : the most abject and pitiable. I have often viewed 
these things and applied them to myself. How dangerous 
my lot, how unsafe 1 am. It appears to me that more of 
these, according to their number, than of any other class, the 
adversary has drawn down and degraded. I could, but shall 
add no more respecting this, and only say that in early life 
some small sufferings compared to those of Thomas, w T hich I 
endured, I have found brought to my mind, at different 
times, to the present day, to my own profit and that of others. 
We know not, when we pass through adverse trials, the use 
t hey may be to ourselves or others." 



CHAPTER IV.— 1811-1814. 

LETTERS ELI YARNALL's DEATH — MARRIAGE TO EDITH 

SHARPLESS — THOMAS SCATTERGOOD's DEATH. 

Although Thomas Kite was favored to feel a good meas- 
ure of resignation at the time when his beloved wife was 
taken from him, yet he soon after experienced great depres- 
sion of mind. His faith and confidence in the Lord's merci- 



56 



MEMOIR- OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1811. 



ful regard to him, seemed to fail, and for a considerable time 
he did not appear in the ministry. About the time that the 
clouds were, in mercy, somewhat dispelled from about his 
faith, he made the following entry in his Diary : 

Fourth month 21st, 1811. Since the afflictive dispensation 
last recorded, my poor mind has been tossed with a variety 
of temptations and trials ; feeling little of what I have here- 
tofore regarded as Divine good. Yet at times, through all, 
my desires have been that the Lord will cause all these things 
to work together for my good. Oh ! that my soul may be 
increasingly established in his everlasting patience, meekly 
receiving the cup given me to drink, considering the Captain 
of salvation, and what He endured, lest I be weary and faint 
in my mind. Oh ! enable me, thou gracious Benefactor, to 
resign myself to thy disposal with an undivided heart, dedi- 
cating all my faculties, attainments and possessions, unto thee, 
from whom they all proceeded — thou who remainest to be 
God over all, blessed forever and forever, — worthy of all 
praise, adoration and worship from the soul which thou hast 
made. 

After this Yearly Meeting Charles Osbourne visited the 
subordinate meetings of this Yearly Meeting, and in the 
Fifth month Thomas Kite accompanied him through the 
meetings constituting Abington Quarterly Meeting. This 
short excursion appears to have been of singular service to 
the drooping mind of the young widower, and a renewal of 
faith was graciously vouchsafed him from above, and a fresh 
ability received to run with patience the race which had been 
evidently set before him. Whilst on this visit, he thus wrote 
to his parents : 



1811.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



57 



Horsham, Fifth month 21st, 1811. 
Dear Parents :— On Second-day we were at Abington 
Meeting, where Charles had the Gospel to proclaim largely 
and livingly to a numerous, solid audience. George Wil- 
liams went with us in the afternoon as a pilot to Byberry, to 
Hannah YarnalFs. The meeting there yesterday w T as the 
largest ever known in the new house, as I was informed. 
Charles was furnished in an extraordinary manner with mat- 
ter and utterance, addressing the members of religious society, 
whether our own or others, separately ; and those who made 
no profession of religion also, together with a variety of 
states and conditions. A solid weight covered the meeting, 
and in my judgment, it was a truly favored opportunity. 
Stephen Comfort and Hannah Yarnall came with us here, to 
the widow Spencer's, where we now are waiting to attend 
Horsham Meeting to-day. I see nothing about home yet, 
but expect, when Benjamin Johnson comes, to return. I feel 
much bound to dear Charles, and can a little, I trust, sympa- 
thize with him. 

In relation to the state of his mind after the death of his 
wife, and the animating effects produced on him by the visit 
with Chas. Osborn, he wrote thus in after life : 

" After I had appeared a few times in the meeting I 
belonged to, a dispensation of great affliction was permitted 
to overtake me. The death of my beloved companion was 
one cause of my great sorrow, but not the only one ; great 
tossings were experienced, being left with two small children, 
the youngest but a few weeks old. Under these trials my 
mouth was shut in our meetings for worship for many months, 
and I seemed very near losing my hold on heavenly good ; 
but a friend in the ministry, from a distance, taking me for a 
5 



58 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1811. 



short time as his companion, hope revived, and at length 
strength was received once more to advocate that cause which 
was, and is, precious to me ; and having obtained mercy, I 
continue to this day in the exercise of the gift, which, I be- 
lieve, has been dispensed to me." 

Humbly attentive to his religious duties, and industriously 
active in his outward business, Thomas Kite, although still 
at times cast down, and often baptized into spiritual deaths, 
found the summer wear quickly and tranquilly away. In 
the autumn he thus wrote to his aunt, Elizabeth Let ch worth : 

Philadelphia, Ninth month 11th, 1811. 
Dear Aunt : — Having finished my daily task, it occurred 
to me to write to thee. True, I hardly know what to write 
about, for very seldom do I write anything beyond an entry 
in the day-book or a letter on business. Yet, I trust, I am 
not so entirely engrossed with the cares of this life as to make 
me unthoughtful of my friends. They are often recollected 
by me with sentiments of affection, and I feel a lively interest 
in their prosperity. Sometimes, in particular, I picture to 
myself your evening family circle : Uncle John reposing his 
weary limbs in his comfortable arm-chair, and disposing 
himself either to cheerful conversation, or silent meditation ; 
whilst thou, equally comfortable in the opposite corner, sits 
mending stockings, reeling yarn, or paring apples for to- 
morrow's pies. The other branches of the family, either 
busily engaged in acts of good housewifery, or resting 
from the toilsome occupations of the day. Cousin Mary* 
and her little charge form part of the picture ; Susan catch- 
ing instruction from her cousin's lips, or addressing her in 

* T. K.'s daughter^ not quite three years old, boarded at J. L.'s, 
and was under the particular charge of his daughter Mary. 



1811.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



59 



the inquisitive language of childish simplicity. But I had 
perhaps better stoj:> my painting, and tell thee some matters 
of fact ; let thee know what has been said and done in this 
great city, the centre of news, trade, and bankruptcy — the 
grand emporium of almost all things good, bad and iu different. 
In the first place, then, trade is dull, and dull it is likely to 
be. Many people apprehend a war with England ; in which 
case our foreign commerce, already languishing, will receive 
a fatal blow. The British have sent out a considerable naval 
force, which is said to have arrived on this side of the Atlantic. 
What object in particular they have in view is yet the sub- 
ject of conjecture only. A number of failures have taken 
place within a week, amongst whom may be mentioned . 

The Jewish priest, Cohen, died a few days ago, and Wm. 
Poyntell this morning. Authentic intelligence of the death 
of John Simpson has reached us, but I have not yet heard 
particulars. Samuel Smith (currier) was married last Fifth- 
day, at Darby, to Hetty Stokes, a daughter of Nathaniel 
Newlin. Joshua and Mary Hoopes have removed to town, 
and live in Carter's Alley. Edward Parker and Mercy 
Widdifield passed at last Monthly Meeting, Northern Dis- 
trict. Charles Allen and Rebecca Jackson, and Wm. Evans 
and Deborah Musgrave are expected to pass soon. * * * 
Wm. Bowen's wife is deceased, and he is about breaking up 
housekeeping, and intends going into the country to board. 
We have been looking at a comet, visible early in the even- 
ing to the north-west, near the horizon, of considerable 
magnitude, and are on the lookout for an eclipse of the sun ? 
described in the almanac to take place on the 17th inst. 
Joseph Walton has not yet returned, owing to the sickness 
of his companion, which detained them at Cincinnati. 

In looking a little towards the possibility of times ap- 



60 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1812. 



proaching of outward difficulty, it appears desirable that we 
who profess to have a testimony to bear to the Messiah's 
peaceful kingdom, should be preserved from mingling our 
spirits with the spirits of the people, or catching that uncer- 
tain, fluctuating state of mind which results from having the 
eye outward to the arm of flesh. May we be redeemed from 
every disposition that prevents our becoming upright, dedi- 
cated followers of the Prince of Peace ; for if this is our 
happy situation, whatever trials from without may arise, hav- 
ing our confidence unshaken in the Supreme Disposer of 
events, w 7 e shall be safe as in the hollow of his holy hand. 
Our place of defence shall be the munition of Rocks, and not 
only so, but by thus abiding under the seasoning virtue of 
Truth, we may be instrumental in holding up the blessed 
ensign of peace in the view of others, and thus become as the 
salt of the earth, or as a city set on a hill, which cannot be hid. 
* * * * * Thomas Kite. 

In his Diary, Tenth month 14th, is the following entry : 
" Suffered anger to prevail, and, under its influence, spake 
unadvisedly. Oh ! for more of the disposition of the Lamb !'' 
In the Fourth month, 1812, T. K. being in Trenton, his 
father wrote to him : " Susanna Home's meeting was large ; 
and considering many of the company were like bullocks 
unaccustomed to the yoke, was a satisfactory season. The 
notice of it had spread over all the city. Every seat, entry, 
and step were filled, and hundreds went away because they 
could not get in the house. The* people were not all of the 
description intended, but as much so as could be expected.'' 

B. K. TO THOMAS KITE. 

New York, Fifth month 28th, 1812. 
Dear Son: * * * The Yearly Meeting here is 



1812.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



61 



smaller, they say, than usual. There are many zealous ones 
among them. Upon the whole, it has been so far satisfac- 
tory; though we had last afternoon one of the most un- 
savory political speeches, from a wild member, that I ever 
heard. This was the harder to be borne, as Friends here are 
remarkably clear of political engagements. The meeting 
very properly took no notice of the harangue. 

In his Diary of Eighth month 26th, 1812, T. K. writes : 
" Yesterday morning died Eli Yarnall, a prince and a great 
man in our Israel ; eminently distinguished by gifts and 
qualifications, yet not more so than by his humility. He 
was remarkable for seldom appearing as a minister, yet when 
he did, his communications were thought to be weighty and 
powerful in an uncommon degree. May the mantle of 
Elijah- the prophetic spirit — rest upon Elisha, for the har- 
vest truly is plenteous, but the rightly anointed laborers are 
comparatively few." 

Micajah Collins, who visited the Meetings of Chester and 
Delaware Counties, in the early part of this year, thus speaks 
of Eli Yarnall in a letter addressed to Edith Sharpless. The 
letter possesses so much, interest as to warrant the insertion 
of considerable extracts from it. 

i 

Fallowfield, Second month 16th, 1812. 
* * After leaving the city we proceeded to Haver- 
ford ; thence to several small meetings not far distant from 
the Lancaster Turnpike ; thence to Middletown ; took a 
night's lodging, and attended meeting with the celebrated 
and justly esteemed Eli Yarnall. I was much interested in 
his company, and wanted to hear the sound of his voice in 
meeting, but did not. Was in hopes he would tack on his 
net, but it was a vain hope. He was, however, very free 



62 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1812. 



and interesting in his converse, and I found good reason to 
love him. 

I did not meet thy father [Joshua Sharpless] until we 
arrived at Concord, at the Quarterly Meeting, since which, 
have had his company at clivers meetings. He w^as w T ell, and 
I expect we shali meet with him at the meeting at this place 
to-day, and that he will continue with me perhaps several 
days. I should be glad of his company, as long as I stay in 
this part of your Yearly Meeting. 

There is no small company of the fraternity when w 7 e all 
come together. Beside the New England friends [himself 
and John Bailey], there are Willet Hicks, of New York, 
Isaiah Balderston, of Baltimore, and the simple, humble- 
hearted Abel Thomas. The dear old man is so humble and 
backward among such a crowd, he can scarcely put his net 
in at all. However, he preaches, if he says nothing. He has 
been with me at every meeting since Cain Quarter. 

As I pass from meeting to meeting I meet with many who 
are the salt of the earth, — many whom I love and esteem. 
There appears a prospect among the young people, male and 
female, giving ground to hope a succession of standard-bearers 
are rising, and will arise from among them, to supply the 
places of those who have gone and are going from the stage of 
action. 

19th. London-grove. Have this day attended the Quar- 
terly Meeting at this place. It was very large on both sides 
of the house. There were many young people present, as 
also divers worthy examples among the ancients, w r ho are 
near to my tenderest feelings, and in whose welfare I feel an 
affectionate interest. The meeting stands adjourned until 
to-morrow at eleven o'clock; * * Micajah Collins. 



1813.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



63 



T. K.'s Diary, Ninth month 1st, 1812. " Another worthy 
departed in the meridian of life, Joshua Maule, who died on 
First-day, being from home on a religious visit. His disor- 
der was a fever, and he suffered much pain, but could testify 
notwithstanding during his illness, that it had been to him a 
time of rejoicing. He was much dedicated to his Master's 
service, and is, no doubt, admitted to the rest prepared for 
the faithful." 

1813. Thomas Kite was now preparing to enter a second 
time into the marriage state. His choice was Edith Sharpless, 
a daughter of Joshua Sharpless, a worthy man, and a faith- 
ful elder of Birmingham Monthly Meeting, Chester County, 
Pennsylvania. Edith had been employed in teaching school 
in the city, and had made her home during the latter part of 
the time of her residence in Philadelphia with that father in 
our Israel, Thomas Scattergood. Thomas Kite in proposing 
the marriage connection to her, did it under the belief that 
it was in obedience to the secret pointings of his Heavenly 
Guide, as well as from the promptings of affection ; and she, 
in accepting him, did it in the assurance vouchsafed her, 
that he was one of the Lord's chosen ; poor, indeed, in this 
world, but rich in faith, and heir of the kingdom.* 

Edith having given up her school, and returned to her 
father's house to prepare herself for the important change she 
was about to make, Thomas Kite frequently addressed her 
by letter. Their letters are good specimens of their kind ; 
pleasant, affectionate, and giving evidence on what his mind 
was mainly bent. We give a few extracts. 

* E. K. pleasantly remarked, that she had come to the conclusion 
in early life, that three things she never would do — marry a man that 
was a widower, — one that was younger than herself, — or a preacher, 
— yet all these met in her husband. 



64 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1813. 



Fourth month 4th. My best wishes attend thee. May 
thy residence at Birmingham be pleasant and profitable ; and 
may we each, not only now, but when joined in a more en- 
during relationship, unitedly seek for that blessing which 
makes truly rich, and adds no sorrow with it ; as Cowper ex- 
presses it : 

" Thou bounteous Giver of all good, 
Thou art of all thy gifts thyself the crown f 
Give what thou canst, without thee we are poor, 
And with thee, rich, take what thou w T ilt aw r ay.' ? 

May we seek first his kingdom, and the righteousness thereof, 
confiding in his promise, " that all things necessary shall be 
added." By the truly humbled mind, small possessions in 
temporals, are seen to be sufficient. It dare not seek for 
great things, but having food and raiment, desires to be con- 
tent. I believe this state, though hard to come at, is through 
Divine aid attainable, and desire I may endeavor for it. 
Under a fresh feeling of affectionate regard, I salute thee, and 
bid thee farewell. 

Fourth month 19th. The Yearly Meeting is very large ; 
quite as much so, I think, as ever I remember it. The stran- 
gers, how 7 ever, who attend are fewer in number than com- 
mon. Sarah M. Watson* is w T ith us, better in health than 
when thou saw her. I met Ann Scattergood in the street 
after meeting ; she inquired affectionately after thy welfare. 
I have seen thy parents, sister Lydia, and Cheyney, and am 
in hopes of meeting Phebe. I have met with many friends 
to whom I am attached ; Stephen Pike in particular, and 
some beloved relatives, w T hose company has been agreeable ; 

* Daughter of Dr. Watson, of Buckingham, Bucks County, a valu- 
able young minister. 



1813.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



65 



but necessary attention to business has prevented my enjoy- 
ing their society to the extent I wish. 

It is truly pleasant to see such a number of goodly-looking 
Friends, particularly young women, walking our streets ; and 
if their conduct should indicate their dedication to the princi- 
ple of Truth, their being here may be an advantage to them- 
selves, and afford no cause of injurious remarks on the part 
of our sober fellow citizens. Many of these are keen-sighted, 
and able to decide upon our conduct, w T hether it comports 
with our dignified profession. Oh ! if this was more gener- 
. ally the case, how should we shine as lights in the world, 
even as a city set on a hill which cannot be hid. We should 
be as way-marks to those who are inquiring the way to Zion 
with their faces thitherward. I remain under the renewed 
impression of love and esteem, thy friend. 

Fourth month 24th. Our Yearly Meeting closed last 
evening, and may be acknowledged to have been a favored 
one, w 7 herein the minds of Friends generally were preserved 
in quietness and harmony ; and iu conclusion a comfortable 
degree of solemnity was granted, under which thanksgiving 
was vocally rendered as well as inwardly felt, to the Author 
of all our blessings. 

Fifth month 8th. We have another striking and affect- 
ing instance of the uncertainty of life. Our friend Caleb 
Shreeve is deceased. I suppose it was about the time you 
left the city that he had a parting opportunity of religious 
retirement with his family, intending to join Susanna Horne 
at Cropwell. At the close of this opportunity he was taken 
with a pain in his head, which it is thought was apoplectic, 
and which increased till he became insensible, in which state 
he lay until about 2 o'clock, and then expired. 

Fifth month 27th. May thy mind be preserved in quietude, 



66 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1813. 



until the important day ; and oh ! that He who condescended 
to attend the marriage of Cana, may favor us with his holy 
presence on that solemn occasion, enabling us in his name to 
set up our banners, — yea, to choose Him for our portion, and 
the lot of oar inheritance ; trusting in Him for our supply, 
both of the dew of heaven — the refreshment that keeps the 
soul alive — and also for such temporal accommodation as He 
sees necessary. In this, as in every other respect, may we 
seek for a qualification to say : Thy w ill be done. 

Sixth month 1st. I received to-day thy letter, dated the 
30th ult. I am well pleased that you have agreed not to 
alter the time agreed on, and feel very little uneasiness re- 
specting the other couple [to be married at the same meet- 
ing]. The principal wish in relation to that part of the 
subject which I feel is, that thou may be favored to banish 
all unpleasant anticipations from thy mind, and to renew thy 
confidence in Him who hath ever proved a present Helper 
in the needful time. * * * Emmor Kimber started this 
day on his proposed visit.* I called at Samuel Bettle's and 
found Jane in tears, having just parted with her beloved 
companion. The prospect of several months' separation was 
evidently trying ; but she seemed aiming at resignation, be- 
lieving him in his place. Abraham Lower is going on a 
religious visit to the lower parts of New Jersey, having 
Israel Maule for a companion. 

Sixth month 5th. I have for several days been very 
closely engaged. Thou mayest recollect that Friends were 
generally invited throughout our Yearly Meeting to attend 
a conference at Newtown last Sixth-day on the subject of a 
superior school for boys only, in which the higher branches 

. * To the meetings in New York Yearly Meeting. Samuel Bettle 
was his companion. 



1813.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 67 



of learning might be taught, and youth of a riper age than 
can be admitted at Westtown might be accommodated. I 
attended that conference, and Friends saw fit to appoint me 
one of a committee of thirteen, to take the subject into more 
particular consideration. That committee met on Fifth-day 
afternoon. Our meeting on that day, which was an ad- 
journed Monthly Meeting, held till near two o'clock. The 
committee met at three, and sat till seven. Then again next 
morning at eight, and rose between ten and eleven. In the 
afternoon the Asylum business came on at three, and we sat 
till near night. So thou seest I have not been entirely un- 
employed. 

Thomas and Sarah Scattergood were invited to attend the 
marriage of their friends at Birmingham, but way did not 
seem to open for it. Instead thereof Thomas, the day before 
the wedding, addressed the following letter to the parties : 

Philadelphia, Sixth month 9th, 1813. 
* * * I do not see an opening for me to leave home 
under present circumstances. Nevertheless, I feel a warm 
desire accompanying my mind, that you may be favored to 
get comfortably through your seeming trial to-morrow ; but 
more so after the accomplishment thereof, that you may 
yet, more fully than ever, set your hearts to serve the Lord 
in the way required of you. So will preservation be wit- 
nessed under all trials attending. You have had a share of 
conflict, both of you, in travelling on so far ; be encouraged 
to persevere in desire to fill up your measure of known duty 
even in the little opened before you, and more from . time to 
time will be manifest. In so doing, your Father which is in 
heaven, will bless you. And it is my prayer for you in pen- 
ning these hasty lines, that you may be blest. 

Thom\r Scattergood. 



68 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1813. 



The marriage was accomplished on the 10th in a satisfac- 
tory manner, in Birmingham Meeting-house ; and the newly 
married pair were soon comfortably settled in Philadelphia. 

The committee on the high school above mentioned, held 
many meetings : but way did not open to take any steps to- 
wards establishing such a seminary. Thomas Kite, shortly 
before his marriage, having addressed a letter on the subject 
of the proposed institution to his friend, Stephen Pike, then 
keeping school at Burlington, early in the Sixth month re- 
ceived a letter in reply, from which the following is extracted : 

Dear Thomas. * * ■ * jf n shall be determined that 
there be a school of that kind, I think great caution is requi- 
site in choosing a preceptor iu classical literature. He should 
be one that is fully convinced of the subordinate utility of 
knowledge of that kind, and one who is both capable and 
willing to influence his scholars in forming a correct notion 
of its value ; keeping always in view himself, and endeavor- 
ing to hold up to their view, that one thing only is needful. 

I think that the procuring a teacher in this department* 
every way qualified, will be a principal difficulty. I confess 
I have some doubts respecting the advantage that it is hoped 
will be derived from the contemplated establishment. Some 
favor it on the ground, that a knowledge of the languages, — 
and, perhaps, classical learning in general, — is a desirable 
object ; others, that since there is an inclination in the minds 
of youth for such acquirements, and this inclination is en- 
couraged by their parents, it will be prudent to furnish them 
with the least exceptionable means of obtaining what they 
desire. Science and literature are both, no doubt, worthy of 
attention ; but ought we not to be guarded against buying 
them at too dear a rate? against sacrificing too much for 



1813.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



69 



them ? If we attain them at the expense of humility and 
simplicity, will we not pay too much for them ? I know it 
does not necessarily follow that those who possess the former 
are deficient in the latter ; but not many rich, noble, pro- 
found, or scientific, &c, is Cowper's idea ; and certainly, it is 
a just one. The sum of what I have said, or intended to say, 
is : If the higher walks of literature can be attained without 
endangering the truly Christian virtues, let us do it ; if not, 
let us remain where we are. I believe that minds rightly 
disposed may pursue science and literature to a very con- 
siderable extent; but those who are much given to self-com- 
placency, and are not capable of appreciating the inestimable 
value of humility and simplicity, had better have their atten- 
tion turned to something else. 

Ninth month 11th, S. Pike again wrote to T. K. — u How 
hard it is for a rich man to enter the kingdom ! I think 

exemplifies in its inhabitants the justness of that remark. 

They, appear to me too rich in every sense of the term to 
entertain much of genuine Quakerism. I fear there are 
many among them, w 7 ho think an agreeable and creditable 
establishment on earth, the prime good, and who do not choose 
to be troubled with cares about futurity. They have a pretty 
smart meeting-house, and it is sometimes pretty well filled ; 
but the gay appearance of the assembly, and the levity of 
the juniors after meeting, give an unfavorable impression 
respecting their standing in a religious sense." 

T. K. having informed S. Pike of the conclusion of the 
labors of the High School Committee, without having effected 
anything, he received the following : 

Burlington, Ninth month 20th, 1813. 
* * Thou mentions the conclusion of the committee 



70 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1813. 



relative to the proposed Boarding School, at which I am not 
surprised ; and I believe it to have been the best they could 
have formed at this time. The little private seminaries that 
are forming in different parts, will, perhaps, answer the pur- 
pose had in view, and better than a large unwieldy one. 
* * We had an agreeable visit from our much beloved 
and loving friend Jacob Lindley. I think if Jacob is ex- 
emplary in no other way, he is considerably so in the love of 
the brethren — which his conduct and conversation manifest. 
I believe his visit was not only agreeable to his Burlington 
friends, but also to himself. He seemed particularly gratified 
with being at John Cox's, and in that neighborhood. He 
said the farms appeared finely cultivated, and things around 
looked pleasant, but these were nothing compared with the 
feelings that attended his mind. John Hoskins and he em- 
braced at parting, with a remarkable degree of warmth, and 
the sympathy of fraternal love. The former Friend seems 
increasing in that kind of sympathy as he advances in the 
vale of years. What a happy omen ! when the natural 
capacity and affections are impaired by the paralyzing hand 
of age, for the distinguishing badge of discipleship to be more 
and more apparent. 

Edith Kite, in the Ninth month, taking her son William 
with her, paid a visit amongst her relatives in Chester County. 
Her husband thus wrote to her under date of Ninth month 
26th, 1813. 

* * * " We had a grand illumination of the city on 
Sixth-day night, in consequence of the naval victory gained 
on Lake Erie. Some Friends were much alarmed at the 
prospect, not knowing what the mob might do to those 



1813.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 71 



who could not join in this mode of expressing joy. I am 
sorry to say, the fears of a number led them into a com- 
pliance, amongst whom were some from whom more con- 
sistent conduct might reasonably have been expected. The 
mob broke the windows of a number of Friends ; yet the 
injury done by them is not very expensive. * * * The 
illumination was very general. It was a wonderful show, 
and the streets were crowded with people walking. Com- 
panies were dragging burning boats about the streets ; some 
making bonfires, others firing squibs, whilst guns were 
heard in almost every direction. Neither our dwelling nor 
store was molested. I fear this is but the beginning of this 
kind of work ; and I feel very desirous if it should prove 
the case, Friends may be preserved in a faithful testimony 
for the peaceable doctrines of the Gospel. * * 

This morning at meeting we had the company of Jane 
Snowden and John Cox, each of whom ministered with ac- 
ceptance. The latter, as he frequently does, handed forth 
the language of encouragement to the tired traveller, who 
under great weakness and discouragement is nevertheless 
looking with desire towards Zion. Such he desired might 
hold on their way, remembering that though the path is a 
tribulated one it leads to endless blessedness." * * 

The 4th of Tenth month, S. Pike wrote to T. K. — " We 
had yesterday the favor of Benjamin White's company at 
our meeting. He continued with us until to-day, very much 
to my satisfaction. Beside a weighty communication from 
Benjamin, we had one from Mercy Brown, another from 
Mary Bonsall, another from John Cox, and a prayer from 
Susan Smith. A lively time and worthy of remembrance. 
Elizabeth Coleman and Margaret Allinson obtained certifi- 
cates or minutes to visit some meetings in your State, par- 



72 MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1814. 



ticularly within the compass of Cain and Concord Quarterly 
Meetings. Rowland Jones was furnished with a minute to 
accompany them." 

1814. First month 2nd. S. P. again wrote to T. K.— 
" Burlington has been much favored of late by the visits of 
Friends. Henry Hull spent several days among us very 
acceptably. His visit was principally of a social nature; but 
he has a minute from the Monthly Meeting whence he came, 
and has been pretty largely in communication, both in meet- 
ings and private sittings. He made his home at Nathaniel 
Coleman's, where I several times met with him, as well as at 
other places. His conversation is agreeable and his addresses 
of a religious nature pleasing and instructive. * * * I 
suppose he is now with you in Philadelphia. 

We have also had the company of the lively little Chris- 
topher Healy ; little in person, but some of us think him a 
large minister. The inhabitants of Burlington were invited 
to attend the meeting at which he was when here, and there 
was a considerable gathering. He was animated in testimony 
and prayer, and I believe gave general satisfaction. He 
afterwards had a meeting at Mount Holly which, I am told, 
was a very extraordinary time. He addressed the different 
classes and descriptions of those who were present, in a man- 
ner that occasioned the tears of many to be strewn on the 
floor. The members of that meeting, which is rather a poor 
one, think it was a day long to be remembered. Wm. Riclg- 
way, who with some other Friends of this place were there, 
thinks he was very eminent. Simon Gillam was his com- 
panion ; and he gave us a specimen of his gift in two sittings 
at which I was present. I liked what he said and the man- 
ner of it, much. I hope he will continue to gain accession 
of wisdom and knowledge, and be allowed to communicate 



1814.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



73 



to others, whether it be in a little or large way. Kobert S. 
Pitfield accompanied Christopher from this place, and I sup- 
pose stayed with him till they reached your city, or its neigh- 
borhood. We have had a great deal of instruction and 
exhortation latterly by strangers and by our own ministers. 
Even the lips of the humble, but interesting Mary Roscoe, 
though closed in silence for a long time, have been opened 
to utter sweet and animating strains for the encouragement 
of travellers in the holy spiritual journey; and to invite 
those who are proceeding in the broad way of vanity and 
folly, to enter at the straight gate into the circumscribed 
path of wisdom. I hope we may improve our advantages. 

I believe thou inquired of me when I was last in the city, 
respecting Mary Eoscoe, under the title of ' The Little 
Prophetess.' She lately dined -at our house, and in conversa- 
tion gave us some particulars respecting herself. Her father, 
who is her only surviving parent, is a rigid Methodist ; and 
her brothers and one sister also incline to tlie same persuasion, 
or do not make any profession of religion. The family are 
poor. Mary was placed out when very young in the family 
of a friend in New York, an acquaintance of her mother's. 
She at that time possessed a sovereign contempt for Friends 
and their ways, and thought it would be a distressing cir- 
cumstance if any connection of her's should become a Quaker. 
Her views, however, changed ; and she at length submitted 
through great reduction of self, to make application to be- 
come a member of the Society, as it appeared to be her in- 
dispensable duty. For a still greater trial of her faithfulness, 
she apprehended herself obliged to appear in open testimony 
to the principles of Truth. In her first essays she did the 
utmost violence to her feelings, and fainted several times in 
attempting to speak in public. Her relations on hearing of 
6 



74 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1814. 



the steps she had taken, became almost entirely estranged 
from her, and treated her with cold neglect. Her father was 
particularly embittered against her ; and I think for a long 
time refused all communication with her ; so that she has 
not seen him more than once in the course of many years. 
About three years since she w 7 as on a religious visit in the 
neighborhood where he resided, and considered it her duty, 
though a great trial, to go to see him. He received her 
rather rudely, showing little or no marks of affection for her ; 
but he endeavored with all his might to convert her to 
Methodism. She listened to all he said with patience and in 
silence, not feeling easy to make any reply to his arguments. 
After saying a great deal, and finding it was to no effect, 
he threatened to bring the officers of their society to convince 
her of her error, and did make application to one ; but the 
man had a little before been at a meeting where Mary was, 
and he wisely counselled that she should be let alone. This 
cooled the father's zeal, and he became more moderate ; and 
w 7 hen she took her leave of him he was affected ; and signified 
that he believed she was in her right place. He has since 
written to her once, Mary says, quite charitably. She does not 
wonder that her relations treat her with so much neglect, for 
she well remembers when she was in the same spirit. She 
has. continued in the situation of a hired maid irom the time 
of her becoming of age, esteeming it her proper sphere, and 
so far from being inflated at the attentions she received since 
she became an approved minister, she is modest and shy, 

perhaps to a fault. She resided for some time in family, 

and it troubled him and his wife not a little, that they could 
not by any means induce her to sit with them at the table. 
I suppose they considered her a sister in the highest affinity 
— being spiritually a child of the same Divine Parent, a par- 



1814.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



75 



taker of his favor and heiress of a mansion in his kingdom, 
and they were unwilling she should be too much of a menial ; 
but she insisted that the kitchen was her proper place. She 
has acted upon the same principle since, so uniformly, so 
perversely, might I not say, that Rebecca Grellett and Susan 
Smith's family have desisted from expostulating with her on 
the subject. 

Our last Quarterly Meeting was favored with the company 
of the animated Christopher Healy. He had considerable 
to communicate, and his labors were attended by evident 
effects, particularly in the women's meeting. His representa- 
tions and appeals were accompanied by a tendering sympathy, 
which reduced nearly the whole company to tears. Several 
young women sobbed aloud. I suppose he is now with you. 
I do not recollect anything material besides occurred at the 
Quarterly Meeting. Yes ! Abby Barker was admitted a 
member of the Select Meeting. 

Mary Roscoe is making a visit to the families of those who 
are in the habit of attending our meeting, members and 
others. * * * We shall be sorry to part with her, but 
I suppose our sorrow will be unavailing, for Henry Hinsdale, 
it appears, has been persuading her she had better go to New 
York, assume his name, and become a partner of his pains 
and pleasures ; circumstances indicate that she is of the same 
mind." 

In the early part of 1814, Thomas Kite was summoned 
before a Court Martial of military officers to answer for not 
having turned out with the militia in the preceding summer. 
Accompanied by his father he went voluntarily before them ; 
gave them his reasons for believing their proceedings were 
illegal, and obtained permission to place his protest against 
their authority upon their minutes. 



76 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1814. 



On the 23rd of Third month Rebecca, the first child of 
Thomas and Edith Kite, was born. 

Fourth month 1st. Stephen Pike wrote to T. K. — " I 
congratulate thee on the increase of thy comforts, alias cares. 
' Life's cares are comforts,' and surely an addition to the 
number of infantile dependents, is a care of considerable 
magnitude. 

Thou hast, no doubt, heard of the loss Society has met 
with, in the removal by death of the ancient, honorable, and 
much beloved John Hoskins.* Friends of this place have 
mourned sincerely on the occasion ; for there are, perhaps, 
few so generally respected and esteemed by every class and 
age as he was. A considerable portion of his time, of latter 
years, was spent in making little social visits among his 
friends — perhaps most of the members in the place — who, 
whether at the wash-tub, spinning-wheel, other occupations, 
or in hours of leisure, were at all times pleased to see him. 
He mostly called on them when it suited him, without making 
any apology when he entered, or when he withdrew, and 
seemed to prefer that they should not press him to stay when 
he showed a disposition to retire. By these familiar visits, 
and his instructive conversation, the venerable man was ex- 
ceedingly endeared to his neighbors, who derived both pleas- 
ure and advantage from them. In him was seen the benign 
influence of Christian principles when allowed to have their 
proper regard. In early life it appears, his manners were 
rather austere, and his appearance repulsive ; but as he ad- 
vanced in the knowledge and practice of his duty in relation 
to his Divine Master, and his fellow 7 man, his deportment was 
exceedingly changed. He was, indeed, a pattern of gentle- 
ness and affection for his friends. When he entered a room 

* He deceased Third month 27th, 1814, in his 87th year. 



1814.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 77 



he was cordially received, and the arm-chair was placed with 
apparent satisfaction for his reception. Even the young, 
though a respectful deference for him might make a slight 
change in their conversation, felt no unpleasant restraint 
from his presence. He was a most exemplary observer of 
religious duties. Scarcely any circumstance could prevent 
his attending religious meetings. No Aveather was so stormy 
or inclement, as to induce him to stay at home, when his 
health would allow him to go ; and the indisposition must 
have been considerable that could operate as a discourage- 
ment. He was so punctual to the hour of gathering, that he 
used to be called pleasantly, " the regulator," and it was 
common to say : Come, it is time* to go, there is friend Hos- 
kins. His judicious activity and zeal in the different meet- 
ings for business is well known. I think he said he had 
attended sixty Yearly Meetings. When he died he was about 
eighty-six years old. What a long course of well doing ! and 
how peaceful was the close ! , I attended him, in company with 
his son John, during the last night except one of his life. 
My mind was clothed with a calm solemnity as I watched 
near him, and contemplated the approach of his closing scene. 

He was extremely weak, and was much troubled with 
phlegm and difficulty of breathing ; but no murmur escaped 
his lips, nor any expression of fretful ness. He appeared to 
be perfectly rational, except while dozing ; and his mind w T as 
evidently occupied with desires for the prosperity of Truth 
and righteousness ; what he said was in short, detached sen- 
tences ; but though uttered in a feeble voice, it was clear and 
pertinent. * * * I was told he had a solemn opportunity 
with J. afterwards, which was exceedingly affecting. 

The departure of this dignified servant was not distinguished 
by the triumphant air which some have been enabled to 



78 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1814. 



assume upon their death-bed. Indeed, his humility taught 
him to think so little of himself, that he said he had nothing 
to depend on but mercy. When I entered his room, and he 
was told I had come to see him, he replied meekly : " He has 
come to see a poor thing." He was continually in motion 
from the effect of his disorder, and kept drawing Thomas 
Scattergood towards him in a very affecting manner. Thomas 
kneeled down at his bedside and prayed with great fervency* 
and while in this act the dying man seemed to be sensible of 
the exercise, for he lay entirely still ; but as soon as the 
prayer was ended he resumed his former motions. This was 
about two hours before he left this scene of trial and entered 
the mansions of rest. His funeral was attended by a great 
number of Friends and others. Arthur Howell spoke twice 
at the grave. George Dillwyn and Susan Smith also spoke ; 
and Thomas Scattergood appeared in prayer. It w T as a 
solemn time." 

The time was now fast approaching when that eminent 
minister of Christ, Thomas Scattergood, w T as to be released 
from his labors of love in the Church militant, and translated 
to the Church triumphant ; exchanging the conflicts, the 
baptisms, the unspeakable sorrows which often depressed his 
spirit, for the joys which human ear hath not heard the full 
of, and the human mind fails to conceive of, which are 
reserved for the people of God. He was at several sittings 
of the Yearly Meeting ; but being taken sick on the 21st of 
Fourth month, the disease, though not apparently violent, 
soon prostrated his strength. He retained his interest, how- 
ever, in the transactions of the Yearly Meeting, — inquired 
frequently concerning it, and did not appear to apprehend 
that the disorder w r hich handled him so gently, w T as a mes- 
senger with a speedy summons for him to the invisible world. 



1814.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



79 



On the 23rd, a friend, saying he felt a peaceful solemnity, 
Thomas added, " So do I ; my mind is centered in quiet, 
peaceful resignation." On the 24th, the day he died, he 
said, " This is the last piece of the garment that is to be 
worked up ; and if I can be favored to join the righteous of 
every generation, it will be enough. Well, I don't know 
that I have much to say for myself; I leave it to the Lord, 
the Shepherd that sleepeth not by day nor slumbereth by 
night ; w T ho watcheth over his children and over his nock." 
"I hope that a righteous generation, will be raised up and 
preserved as a seed." He lay awhile in silence, then added, 
" Oh ! if we can but be favored to take some of that love with 
us — the end crowns all. I have nothing to boast of ; I have 
been baptised into many low places and raised up again." 
His last expression was : " I will lead them !" This was 
uttered w r ith emphasis, as if his soul could feel and rejoice in 
the assurance, that Christ Jesus was about to lead his tabu- 
lated spirit to the living fountains of waters, where God 
should wipe away all tears. 

Thomas Kite was deeply moved at the loss sustained by 
the Church militant, in the removal of this faithful servant, 
this honorable elder, this discerning minister, from the nock 
and family on earth ; and he thus poured forth his feelings 
to his father-in-law, who had not been to Yearly Meeting : 

T. K. TO JOSHUA SHARPLESS. 

\ 

Philadelphia, Fourth month 25th, 1814. 
Dear Father : — Our city, his family, and the Church, 
have truly sustained a loss in the removal of our beloved 
Thomas Scattergood, who departed this life at twenty min- 
utes past seven last evening. He had been a little poorly 
with a cold for several days, but on Fourth-day night became 



80 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1814. 



seriously indisposed. On Fifth-day, at noon, Dr. Parrish was 
called ; and his illness continuing, Drs. Atlee and Griffiths 
were successively called in. Yesterday morning he appeared 
so low, that Dr. Parrish proposed remaining with him, and 
did so during meeting time ; and in the afternoon Dr. Atlee 
took his place. After afternoon meeting, both Griffiths and 
Parrish remained until the close. They were sitting in the 
room when, perceiving a slight suspension of breathing, they 
requested his children to be called. They were in the house, 
and came immediately into the room, where they had been 
seated but about two minutes, when he gently drew up his 
feet into the bed, and without the least apparent pain or 
straggle, breathed his last. During his illness he appears to 
have had no prospect that it would so terminate. He ex- 
pressed to Dr. Atlee, in substance, that he had several times 
been let down with great weakness, and been raised again. 
That if this was his last sickness, he had not seen it ; but that 
it was among his Lord's secrets. Expressing entire resigna- 
tion, notwithstanding, to the Divine Will, and appeared to 
be in a sweet, affectionate and composed frame of mind. 

It may be said of the deceased, that he had grown up to 
the stature of a Father in the Truth ; and in this city his 
services as such were eminent, indeed ; often handing out the 
cup of encouragement to the feeble travellers towards Zion, 
and having had large experience of the Lord's wonders in 
the deeps, he was remarkably qualified to speak to the states 
of those who were sinking under discouragements of various 
kinds. The Christian propriety which adorned his life and 
conversation, gave great influence to his fervent labors in the 
Gospel ; and in his own meeting, particularly, he will be much 
missed, being taken away in the midst of his usefulness, while 
he was still strong for the Lord's work, his spiritual eye not 



1814.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



81 



being dire, nor his force as a living minister abated. But 
though one generation of faithful laborers passeth away, and 
another generation coraeth, the Word of the Lord,— that 
which quickened and qualified them for the service of their 
day, — endureth forever. As those who are now coming on 
the stage of active life submit to its purifying operations, 
they also will be enabled to stand as faithful witnesses for the 
same dignified cause. Thus the spirit which animated Elijah, 
will rest upon Elisha, and there will be a succession in the 
prophetic office ; testimony-bearers will still be raised up to 
blow the trumpet in Zion, and to stand as watchmen on the 
walls of Jerusalem. 

Fourth month 25th. The funeral was obliged to be yes- 
terday afternoon, as the body was not in a state to keep. 
The funeral was very large, and the testimony which Henry 
Hull bore at the grave, I suppose could not be heard by one 
third of the people collected. The widow appeared more 
composed than could have been expected. 

Mary Harper, who was left sick at father Kite's, continues 
there. She has been very poorly, indeed, but is somewhat 
better. 

The information relative to Mary Harper's health was 
premature. kShe continued to sink rapidly, and on the 29th, 
three days after the above paragraph was written, was quietly 
released from suffering. The loss of this valuable elder, who 
had been in some measure a spiritual mother to him, was 
sensibly felt by Thomas Kite ; but in her case, as well as in 
that of Thomas Scattergood, the undoubted persuasion that 
each had respectively filled up their measure of duty on 
earth, and were gathered home in mercy, took away much of 
• the sting from the bereavement. 



82 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1814. 



CHAPTER V.— 1814-1815. 

CLOSE OF THE WAR WITH ENGLAND — DEATH OF ANNE MIF- 
FLIN AND SARAH MATTHEWS — LETTERS FROM STEPHEN 
PIKE. 

Business calling Thomas Kite to the East in the early 
part of the summer of 1814, from New York, he addressed a 
letter to his wife, under date of Sixth month 4th, from which 
the following is extracted : 

* * * " We had a very agreeable company in the 
stage ; one Presbyterian and one Episcopalian clergyman, 
together with other intelligent and well behaved persons. 
We reached our lodging place, Somerville, about nine in the 
evening, and started at half-past four in the morning." 

Soon after his return from the eastward, T. Kite wrote to 
his wife, then at Birmingham, under date of Sixth month 
20th. He describes the great commotion amongst the citi- 
zens that day, consequent on the launch of a new 7 frigate. 
People gathered in from all the neighboring places ; sheds 
were erected and crowded with spectators, as were also house- 
tops chimney-tops, and all sorts of river craft. After stating 
that it was estimated that 50,000 persons were gathered, he 
adds : "I am sorry to hear some Friends were led away by 
curiosity to join this great multitude, evidently for want of 
attention to that which preserves, not only from evil, but from 
the appearance of evil. Doubtless it is an evil thing for those 
who profess to have a testimony against war, to give their com- 
pany on such occasions. I have not yet heard whether many 
casualties occurred. One man is stated to have been killed ; 
and if no more, it will be cause of wonder." 

1815. The war, w 7 ith its depressing effects on trade, and * 
its illuminations for victory, passed away ; and all classes of 



1815.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



83 



the community seemed to rejoice at the return of peace. 
Stephen Pike, writing to T. K., gives a lively picture of the 
sensation produced in the quiet city of Burlington, by the 
announcement of the treaty of peace. 

Burlington, Second month 15th, 1815. 
* * * Among the circumstances which have latterly 
excited a powerful interest among the peaceful inhabitants 
of Burlington, is the long hoped-for dawning of peace over 
the dark and fearful prospect of privation and calamities 
which seemed daily thickening around us. There are few 
places, perhaps, of the same magnitude, in which there are 
so many genuine lovers of peace as in this. What, then, 
must have been the sensation produced by a sudden, and to 
many an unlooked-for annunciation of the near approach of 
such a delightful guest. Every one seemed inspired with 
fresh and unusual animation. A buzz of pleasure circulated 
from neighbor to neighbor, and from street to street. The 
bells of the town were employed in uttering a more clamor- 
ous expression of joy ; a large proportion of houses — except 
Friends' — were illuminated, as emblematical of the state of 
the owners' minds. I had not received any information re- 
spectiug the event, which I thought could be depended on, 
until it was announced by an animated peal of the bells, a 
little before the close of my school. It is customary w T ith me 
previous to dismissing my scholars, to have a pause of silence. 
At that time the contrast between the profound stillness within 
and the noisy expression of joy without, was so strong as to 
have a great effect on the risibilities of my scholars. I was 
obliged to double the appearance of gravity on my own 
countenance, to produce a becoming degree of it in theirs. 
My feeliugs on the occasion were in some degree solemn ; and 



84 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1815. 



I endeavored to experience a sense of gratitude for the ex- 
traordinary favor which appeared likely to result from this 
dispensation of a gracious Providence. Some of our friends, 
on being informed of the peace, were singularly affected. 
Our neighbor Maria (George Dillwyn's sister, and mother to 
Gulielma M. Smith), on receiving the intelligence, burst into 
tears, and expressed an apprehension that we were not worthy 
of so great a blessing. Xathaniel Coleman, Robert L. Pit- 
field says, was completely intoxicated. He ran to convey 
the news to his wife, and seized her by the arm with such a 
powerful grasp, as to make her call out. I wish future events 
may justify the rejoicing which has been indulged in to such 
a degree by many ; but I am apprehensive (as well as my 
pious neighbor), we shall prove ourselves, in a collective capa- 
city, unworthy of such a favor, and shall again, at a time to 
come, forfeit that we have received, and by increasing our 
debt, incur still greater penalties. But we have one conso- 
lation under every circumstance, prosperous or adverse, we 
have it in our power to become associated with the righteous, 
that band of alchymists, possessed of a stone which trans- 
mutes all into good. 

Thomas Kite having written a letter to his uncle, John 
Letchworth, in which he spoke of quickness of temper as be- 
ing one of his besetting sins, he received the following reply : 

East Fallowfield, Third month 12th, 1815. 
Deajr Xephew : — Iron sharpeneth iron. So a man sharp- 
eneth the countenance of his friend. This seems, in some 
measure, the case with a letter. I received thine of the 5th 
instant, and was gratified thereby. Thy observations, I be- 
lieve, are correct with respect to trials of various kinds await- 
ing us, and that others beside thyself have their besetting 



1815.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



85 



sin, there need be no doubt of. Quickness of temper thou 
apprehendest to be thine. May I not say, " hail fellow, well 
met!" for it is mine, also. What is the result? When we 
are off our watch, and this predominates, are we not met 
with ? and do we not receive chastisement? Now, what con- 
clusion shall we draw from this ? One seems evident, that 
we are poor weak creatures, and stand in need of the care of 
the great Caretaker. This ought to have a humbling ten- 
dency. Though this ma*y cast us down, yet we ought not to 
despair, for I think it is written, " Whom the Lord loveth 
He chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom He receiveth." 
I may, perhaps, take the liberty to hint at [a thing] wherein 
I have been tried sometimes, and that is, a prospect of duty 
which appears far beyond my depth or strength to accom- 
plish ; it appears the work of a man, nay, a strong man, and 
not a child like me. So that I am almost led to doubting ; 
there appear so many obstacles from within and from with- 
out to oppose it. Yet I feel disposed to try the fleece wet 
and dry, that I may be furnished with a clear evidence ; and 
sometimes persuade myself, were this obtained, I would not 
prove rebellious. But I am weak. In seasons like the one 
described, it is not always easy to wash the face and anoint 
the hair ; yet I have endeavored tt) be in the disposition of 
not appearing unto men to fast. 

T. K. replied Third month 30th, 1815. 

Dear Uncle : — Thy last revived feelings of sympathy 
towards thee, which have often secretly prevailed in my 
mind under a consideration of thy various exercises ; and the 
desire that arose was, that thou might press forward in the 
path of simple dedication. Though in seasons of weakness thou 
may be ready, under a view of apprehended requiring to say, 



86 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1815. 



" who is sufficient for these things ?" yet how encouraging 
the language of our Divine Master, " My strength is suffi- 
cient for thee, for my strength is made perfect in weakness." 
What a favor it is that we do know that of ourselves we can 
do nothing, and that we are sensible our trust is not in our- 
selves, but in the sufficiency of that Power who not only puts 
his own forth, but goes before them ; whose promise is, " As 
thy days so shall thy strength be;" and who hath never 
failed to reveal Himself as a present Helper in the needful 
time. 

Our meeting has been stripped of two ministers. Anne 
Mifflin departed on Third-day week, in the afternoon, and 
Sarah Matthews the next morning. They had each been 
unwell for some time ; had each partaken considerably of 
trials of various kinds, and we trust, are each gathered to 
that blessed inheritance where the weary are at rest. 

This day was our Monthly Meeting, in which sat the first 
time for many years, Joseph Dillworth, having been reinstat- 
ed to membership at the preceding meeting. To day an 
acknowledgement was received from John James, I hope, 
made in sincerity. The meeting also accepted it, and he is 
again a member. Samuel Bettle obtained a minute to visit 
the meetings about Muncy, Roaring Creek, &c, but does not 
expect to set out till after Yearly Meeting. I suppose thou 
knew his gift had been acknowledged by the Monthly Meet- 
ing, and he recommended to- the last Quarterly Meeting. 
Caleb Pierce expects to acompany him. 

STEPHEN PIKE TO THOMAS KITE. 

Burlington, Third month 19th, 1815. 
Our Morning Meeting this day was an unusually solemn 
one. We had sat in silence during perhaps half an hour, 



1815.]. 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



87 



when our much esteemed Mary R. rose and began an inter- 
esting and very iustructive address. She generally com- 
prises what she has to say among us in a single paragraph 
or two ; but at this time she made several pauses. She com- 
menced with expressing an apprehension she had, that some 
present were oppressed in the bonds of affliction, and were 
under the influence of discouragements, and she administered 
consolation to their drooping minds. She observed bonds 
were far from being a sure indication of Divine displeasure 
and desertion ; and instanced Peter bound in chains in prison, 
who was liberated by an angel sent from heaven. She ex- 
horted them to rely on the strength of the Almighty arm, 
the never-failing support of which is promised to the faithful. 
She added other instructive and encouraging remarks, and 
then in a solemn and impressive manner addressed the youth 
of her own sex. She said she had experienced much satisfac- 
tion in the belief that though the faces of many of them did 
not appear to be turned toward Zion, their hearts were filled 
with good- will to the cause. That though, when interrogated 
under certain circumstances, like Peter, they might deny 
their connection with their Divine Master, they were deeply 
interested, in what, through weakness, they affected to slight ; 
and she exhorted them with fervency and affection to come 
forward in their life and conversation as the avowed disciples 
of Jesus, and the advocates of truth and righteousness. I 
cannot say with certainty whether others were circumstanced 
like me, but if I might judge by the reigning silence and 
solemnity, and by the number of handkerchiefs employed to 
veil the face on the women's side of the house, there were 
many, as well as myself, enamored of the beauty of holiness, 
and excited strongly to desire the possession of what ap- 
peared so noble, and at the same time so lovely. Mary was 



88 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1815. 



followed by A. Barker, George Dillwyn, Richard Smith, and 
by Susan Smith in prayer. Richard's matter on this, as well 
as several late occasions, was more in quantity, and I think 
also in weight, than formerly. He appears to be increasing 
in strength and integrity of mind. He exhibited lately an 
uncommon instance of simple dedication in the performance 
of ajyprehended duty. He made confession in the Prepara- 
tive Meeting, of having improperly beateu a boy that was 
under his care. He said he knew the mention of it would 
appear singular, but his peace was concerned in doing it. 
Who will undertake to assert that no use will arise from it ? 
Rowland Jones, our other minister in embryo, seldom appears 
now in public. 

Robert and Elizabeth Pitfleld ! The latter I consider shap- 
ing to be a minister of the first order, endued with power to 
baptize. I was lately witness to a special instance of the 
exercise of her gift, in a private sitting, in which she, George 
Dillwyn and Margaret Allinson spoke. * * * 

Lyclia Jefferis, a young child of Cheyney and Martha 
Jefferis, having deceased about the 1st of Ninth month, this 
year, T. Kite wrote to his wife, who was with them, the 
following : 

Philadelphia, Ninth month 5th, 1815. 

Thy letter came to hand on Second-day, and the intelli- 
gence of little Lydia's release from her sufferings was not 
unexpected. Though both reason and religion in such a 
case suggest topics of consolation, yet still to parents such a 
bereavement must be affecting. Our dear sister no doubt 
feels it so ; yet I trust she, as well as brother Cheyney, have 
been favored with resignation. * * 

Henry Hull was, and perhaps still is in the city, journey- 



1815.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



89 



ing southward. I spent last evening at Samuel Bettle's. J ane 
was quite lively and pleasant, and Samuel quite as much so 
as common. Elizabeth Pierce is better than she was at 
Concord. She seems in a pleasant, innocent state of -mind, 
and if taken hence, I doubt not it will be to rest. This is 
the crown of all! and oh! the solicitude I sometimes feel that 
thou and I may so bend to the forming hand of the great 
Potter, as to become instruments for his use ; that we may 
fill up our measure of usefulness on this stage of action, that 
at the solemn close we may be entitled to " Well done." Let 
us then cheerfully give up to those baptisms of spirit which 
reduce the creaturely will, — w T hich bow and prostrate us 
before the Father of Mercies, — and which make us renewedly 
willing to be what He would have us to be ; and as this is 
our engagement, He will be near to help in every trial ; He 
will lift up the drooping head, confirm the feeble knees, 
teach our hands to war and our fingers to fight ; give us the 
victory over our ow 7 n corruptions, preserve us from falling, 
and finally (oh! precious hope!) present us faultless before 
the presence of His Glory with exceeding joy. What is the 
world and all its amusements, profits and honors, compared 
with a crown immortal that fadeth not away, which is re- 
served in Heaven for all who are kept by the pow r er of God 
through faith unto salvation. I am sensible I can write 
nothing new, but feel desirous our minds may be increasingly 
drawn from earth to heaven, that as we advance toward the 
termination of our earthly course, w T e may be increasing in 
a qualification to join the innumerable company who stand 
before the throne, whose garments have been washed and 
made clean through the blood of the Lamb, who have fol- 
lowed their Lord in the regeneration, continuing with Him 
in his temptations — drinking of the cup He drank of — bap- 
7 



90 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1815. 



tized with his baptism, and therefore permitted to reign with 
him. It is very unexpected to touch upon these solemn 
subjects in this way, but as they presented, I drop them in 
love and tenderness, being truly thy affectionate, T. K. 

STEPHEN PIKE TO THOMAS KITE. 

, Burlington, Tenth month. 25th, 1815. 

I had considerable conversation with Joseph [Scattergood 
son of Thomas], though on indifferent subjects. I think him 
possessed of strong natural powers, and probably if his 
talents had been cultivated, he would have been one of our 
most shiniug characters. As it is, he is calculated to be 
highly useful in society. He may never be commissioned 
in the Divine embassy as his father, that eminent minister, 
but his service in the councils of his fellow members in the 
church militant, may still be exceedingly valuable. 

* * * It is really melancholy to observe the diffusion 
and multiplication of error in our Society. To see value set 
on some things of not intrinsic worth, and the value of other 
greatly misapprehended and immoderately esteemed; whilst 
the virtues of meekness, temperance, charity, exhibited in a 
life of condescension and forbearance, of contented frugality, 
and the essence of benevolence and humble piety, appear to 
be considered as subjects in which the eloquence of our galla- 
ries may indeed be employed with great propriety, but not 
as indispensable acquirements. Ah ! how I wish that heads 
of families should see things in the light of truth, and weigh 
them in the balance of the sanctuary ; that nothing should 
appear beautiful to them but what accords with simplicity 
and purity ; and that nothing should seem possessed of weight 
which has not some degree of eternal importance. 

Our meeting, thou knew, liberated several couples to travel 



1815.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



91 



to the North and to the South, with a view to preach the 
knowledge of truth, and £>ersuade men to abandon error. 
Since then, John Cox has obtained concurrance in a prospect 
of attending the meetings composing Westbuiy Quarterly 
Meeting, New York ; and our Burlington Nathaniel, in whom, 
perhaps, there is nearly as little guile as in the Hebrew whose 
name he possesses, has gone to bear him company. I think 
very well of it for several reasons. He, (that is N. Coleman) 
is by no means an unsuitable companion, and he has had 
rather a melancholy kind of life latterly. Since the war, and 
the levying of the tax on plate, he has declined business, 
except a little in the mending department, which has left 
him more leisure than one not given to lounging, and not 
particularly fond of reading, can satisfactorily dispose of. 
Add to this the absence of a wife [E. C. being on a religious 
visit], whose absence he could but ill brook for a day, when 
he had more concerns to occupy his attention, and thou canst 
easily imagine him not very comfortable. His daughters 
have not been remiss in endeavoring to console him, but 
they could succeed but in a small degree, and had the mor- 
tification to be told by him that the attentions of a hundred 
children could not suffice to fill the blank occasioned by the 
absence of a w T ife. Elizabeth and Margaret are expected 
home in the course of a few days, and A. Barker and company 
about the same time. 



92 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1816. 



CHAPTER VL— 1816-1822. , 

THOMAS KITE RECOMMENDED AS A MINISTER REBECCA 

JONES' DEATH — DEATH OF GEORGE DILLWYN— DEATH 
OF ISAAC SHARPLESS. 

In the year 1816, the Monthly Meeting of Philadelphia 
recommended Thomas Kite to the Quarterly Meeting of 
Ministers and Elders as one to whom they believed a gift in 
the ministry of the Gospel had been committed by the Head 
of the Church. His uncle, John Letchworth, who sympa- 
thized with his nephew in the trials and temptations incident 
to the station into which he was called, addressed the follow- 
ing instructive letter to him : 

East Fallowfield, First month 4th, 1817. 
Dear Thomas : — I often hear talk of great ministers, and, 
unless I deceive myself, hear it without envy. Shall we con- 
sider what it is that constitutes a great minister? By what 
rule shall we judge? Common fame is the rule in courts to 
judge of a person's character. Well, be it so. Hear what 
is said: " Such an one spoke largely; I think not less than 
an hour and a half, or two hours ; he is a great minister !" 
" Well, for my part, (says a second), I must confess, my head 
was not sufficient to contain all ; I was glad when he sat 
down. I even thought the few words dropped by the other 
Friend, carried as much weight with it as all the other's put 
together." " I don't like your ' poppers,' " says a third. 
Again : " Such an one is a great minister, and she has a most 
beautiful delivery ; her voice is quite musical." " Well, 
now, I thought when I heard her, what a pity it was there 
had not been some good elder with her in her early setting 



1817.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



93 



out, to have prevented her singing instead of preaching." 
" Well, I admire at this ! How dost thou like the delivery of 
such an one ?" " Why, I think he delivers himself in a clear, 
distinct, intelligible, manly manner." " Now, I think, he 
seems to read his sermon over like a school-boy saying his les- 
son." I have given a short specimen of the observations which 
are made on ministers of our Society, and by members, too. 

^; :js 

There is a path, a path of safety, and this is the path of 
clear, plain duty. As this is kept in, and w r e journey for- 
ward, although we may be stripped and wounded by thieves 
and robbers, — although the Priest and the Levite may look 
on and pass us by on the other side, and make no observa- 
tions at all, yet when the good Samaritan oomes along, he 
will pour in wine and oil, bind up our wounds, and set us 
upon his beast. Thus it will be done unto the man or woman 
whom the King delighteth to honor ; who seek the honor 
that cometh from Him, and not from man, whose breath is 
in his nostrils. Therefore, " seekest thou great things for 
thyself? seek them not," bat be of good cheer. So saith thy 
loving uncle, John Letchwtjrth. 

Thomas Kite was very much concerned for the right edu- 
cation of his children, and he devoted much of his leisure 
hours to them, endeavoring to promote their instruction in 
useful and interesting things. In the Eleventh month, 1817, 
he makes the following note concerning the two eldest, and 
their reading : 

"Susan in her ninth year. William just turned of seven. 
Previous reading, parts of the Bible, Barbauld's Lessons, 
interesting anecdotes of children, original poems, the first 
part of Harry and Lucy and Frank and Rosamond. Began 



94 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1817. 



a regular course of reading and conversations with them, 
Tenth month, 1817, for from twenty minutes to an hour in 
the evening. Melish's School Atlas furnishes geographical 
exercises for a portion of almost every evening. Evenings 
at Home furnishes interesting matter for many evenings ; 
much of it found to be beyond their comprehension, and, 
therefore, left for the present. 

Eleventh month. Dr. Aiken's Arts of Life does not seem 
sufficiently to interest them. Frank and Eosamond, and 
Harry and Lucy, the second parts. Highly interesting ; 
furnishes much matter for remark. 

15th. Went to see the camels. Their natural history. 
Key to knowledge ; useful information, but not conveyed in 
a lively and interesting manner. New Robinson Crusoe ex- 
cites much interest. Some parts needful to be suppressed 
in reading to children, being calculated to encourage a mar- 
tial spirit. 

Twelfth month. Evening Entertainments. Some parts 
to be suppressed, but containing much that interests and in- 
forms respecting the manners and customs of nations." 

Sarah Sharpless, the wife of Isaac, Edith Kite's brother, 
was now in declining health. As she was patiently and hope- 
fully drawing near her close, her mother-in-law, Ann Sharp- 
less, who resided under the same roof with her, became much 
depressed in spirit. Joshua Sharpless having written to his 
son Thomas, giving an account of his wife and daughter, re- 
ceived the following letter : 

Philadelphia, Twelfth month 19th, 1817. 
Dear Father : — I had thought of writing to thee before 
I received thy letter, when I found we were not to see thee at 
this time. The situation of sister Sarah, though on her hus- 
band's, children's, and the Church's account, it may be re- 



1817.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



95 



gretted, yet on her own account it cannot be, because there is 
ground to believe that her warfare is accomplished, her ini- 
quity is pardoned ; and waiting in readiness, her loins girded, 
and lamp burning, for the call of the Heavenly Bridegroom. 

It is affecting to hear that dear mother is plunged into so 
low a spot ; but I cannot but hope she will be favored with 
strength to lay hold on his promises, " who cannot lie," and 
be enabled to cast her care upon Him who careth for her as 
well as the sparrows, and in whose sight, being of the num- 
ber of his dear children, she is of more value than many 
sparrows. May her confidence be renewed in Him who is 
both a sun and a shield, light and protection, that so from a 
fresh feeling of his everlasting, loving kindness, she may be 
qualified to say, " The Lord is the strength of my life ; of 
whom shall I be afraid ?" 

It is a humbling consideration, that even those who have 
had large experience of the Lord's goodness and preserving 
pow T er in youth, middle age, and more advanced life, have 
often, nevertheless, toward the close of their pilgrimage, been 
deeply tried, both from within and from without. If some 
experience of this kind, my dear father, should be allotted 
thee, it is a favor that thou art enabled to believe " that these 
light afflictions are working out through Divine favor a far 
more exceeding and eternal weight of glory ;" and though 
thy humbled mind, in looking back over a long life of dedi- 
cation, may be obliged to confess, " I am an unprofitable 
servant ; I have done but that which it was my duty to do," 
yet how precious to be enabled to offer the incense of a con- 
trite heart, renewedly believing, that He who has delivered 
out of past conflicts and dangers, will be near to preserve in 
the few remaining trials, and by the operation of his own 



96 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1818. 



eternal baptism, refine and prepare for an admission into his 
undefiled rest. 

* * * Rebecca Bacon was suddenly called out of 
time about a week ago ; having retired apparent!} 7 in usual 
health, and being found dead in her bed in the morning ; 
probably occasioned by apoplexy. 

1818. At the time of the Yearly Meeting in 1818, Joshua 
Sharpless judged himself too infirm to venture to Philadel- 
phia to attend it, yet he was not so indisposed as to make it 
needful for his wife to remain with him. Rightly appreci- 
ating the trial it must be to one who had long been zealously 
and actively concerned for the prosperity of Truth, to be un- 
able to attend the annual assembly and mingle in social and 
religious fellowship with those who were bound to the sup- 
port of the same precious cause and testimonies, and also 
feeling with him in his lonely situation, Thomas Kite be- 
lieved it right to address him a few lines of sympathy and 
encouragement. 

Philadelphia, Fourth month 18th, 1818. 

Dear Father : — Both Edith and myself feel sensibly dis- 
appointed at not seeing thee, with mother and Isaac [when 
they came] ; but cannot blame thee, considering thy state of 
weakness, for deciding upon remaining at home. Though 
it is likely thou w T ilt feel somewhat lonely, yet we hope thy 
mind will be supported in peaceful contentment, remember- 
ing, that when able, thou didst not permit trifles to prevent 
thee from assembling with thy friends, and going down into 
exercise and baptism with those who bear " the burden and 
heat of the day." 

Mother [Sharpless] appears to feel very comfortable ; says 
she feels this morning less of a pain in her shoulders. Aunt 



1818.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 97 

Esther Garrett is with us, and lodges with mother. Cheyney 
and Martha are also w T ith us ; no others have yet come to 
lodge. 

Rebecca Jones rests from her labors and painful conflicts. 
Her sufferings during a few late months have been great. 
She died on Fourth-day afternoon, and is to be buried this 
morning before meeting. 

Win. Williams and John Heald are here, and lodge at 
Father Kite's. Esther Griffin, and her daughter ; Mary 
Naftel, and other friends, are in town, among whom, I be- 
lieve, Daniel Howl and, of Rhode Island, is one. 

Early in the Fifth month of this year, Thomas Kite started 
on a visit, principally of business, through the Eastern States. 
Desirous of administering pleasure to his infirm father-in- 
law, by showing him he was not forgotten in his weakness, 
soon after his return, Thomas wrote him a letter, giving 
some account of his journey. 

Philadelphia, Sixth month 5th, 1818. 
Dear Father : — Having returned from my little jour- 
ney, I am willing to devote a sheet of paper to giving thee 
some account of it. I left iiome the day of our Quarterly 
Meeting [held Fifth month 4th] in the afternoon, by the 
Bristol steamboat. Took stage [at Bristol], and reached 
Kingston, in New Jersey, that night, — bad roads, and a 
drunken driver, occasioning me considerable uneasiness. 
The next morning [Third-day] I reached New York. 
Fourth-day w r as Monthly Meeting there, which I attended ; 
and having dispatched my business, on Fifth-day evening I 
took the steamboat for Albany. I regretted passing the 
Highlands in the night, but rose about midnight to get such 
a view of them as I could, which was but the majestic out- 



98 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1818. 



line. The next morning I saw the Catskill Mountains, still 
white with snow. In the evening reached Albany ;* and 
having on Seventh-day morning attended to business there, 
went in the afternoon to Troy. First-day attended morning 
and afternoon meeting [in that place]. Between meetings I 
climbed a hill, from which I had a distant prospect of 
Cohoes Fails, where the whole Mohawk River is precipitated 
seventy -five feet, I was told. I met at Troy agreeable Friends, 
and I think it one of the handsomest little towns I have ever 
seen. In the eveniug I returned to Albany, from whence, on 
Second-day morning, I took my departure towards Boston. 
That day passed by Lebanon Springs— the Shaker settlement 
adjunct, — and went over the mountain on which said settle- 
ment is situated. There again I saw snow. We afterwards 
ascended the Green Mountain, which is here said to be 
twenty-five miles over. On the elevated land spring had not 
made its appearance ; the ground was not clear of snow, and 
not a leaflet to be seen. The farmers are discouraged from 
attempting to raise Indian corn, and are substituting potatoes, 
which yield an abundant increase. I think they are better 
than ours, and they say answer very well for fattening both 
pork and beef. Lodged at Northampton, a beautiful town, 
on the Connecticut River. The next day rode through a 
cultivated country one hundred miles, to Boston. I think in 
no part of Massachusetts, not even in the mountainous country, 
is so much land left iu timber as about the Brandy wine, Pa. 
Most of the way are thick stone fences, and many handsome 
towns. Boston is very much improved in buildings since I 
was there eleven years ago, but is still the crookedest town I 
ever saw. I went to see Friends' meeting-house, now shut 
up ; it is next door to the Merchants' Exchange. On Fourth- 
* Taking 24 hours from New York to Albany. 



1818.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



99 



day evening I went to Lynn, and lodged at Micajah Collins. 
Next day [Fifth-day] attended their Monthly Meeting, which 
was large ; I thought the business well managed. That even- 
ing I went to Salem ; lodged at Betsey Purington's. Re- 
turned next day to Boston ; finished my business there, and 
on Seventh-day went in a stage to Providence. Here Obadiah 
Brown kindly insisted on my staying at his house. On First- 
day I attended two meetings. On Second-day, finding no 
stage for Hartford, I was obliged to remain. I spent the 
morning with Obadiah at [the house of] his father, Moses 
Brown, who interested me much with anecdotes of Job Scott, 
who lived with 'him when he first appeared in the ministry. 
He showed me a number of Job's letters to him, and inter- 
esting books and papers. After dinner we all went to see the 
Yearly Meeting school house, now nearly finished. It is on 
a very fine and commanding situation. I afterwards w T ent 
to Wm. Almy's, with whose daughter Anna I was pleased. 
Her simplicity and dedication, in the midst of affluence, being 
very exemplary. She had just returned from visiting fami- 
lies in a neighboring meeting. Third-day morning I started 
for Hartford, and was much pleased with the Institution for 
the Deaf and Dumb [at thac place]. The pupils appear to 
be making considerable progress in knowledge. The superior 
class, who have been there about a year, can understand the 
significant motions of the hands of their preceptors so as to 
write down grammatically complex sentences. They also 
learn arithmetic. From Hartford, on Fourth-day, I went to 
New Haven, and embarked again the same evening on a 
steamboat for New 7 York. Our passage through Hurlgate 
was difficult. We reached New York on Fifth-day morning, 
and on Sixth-day left for Philadelphia. As I w 7 as going dow ; n 
from my lodgings to the steamboat, I met my uncle, John 



100 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1818. 



Letchworth, and my sister Mary, who had just arrived to 
attend the Yearly Meeting. I reached home on Seventh- 
day morning. Thus I have given thee a brief account 
of every day's movements. I may add, that B. White 
sailed last Seventh-day for Liverpool ; and that Stephen 
Grellett, who was liberated for his northern journey by his 
own Yearly Meeting, expects to sail for England on the loth 
or 16th of this month, accompanied by Mary Xaftel. 

Whilst passing through Connecticut, Thomas Kite became 
interested in a fellow traveller, a young female of pleasant 
manners and good intellect. Beside the conversation grow- 
ing out of the scenery around them, and the various little 
circumstances occurring, she made some inquiries into the 
doctrines of the Society of Friends ; which not only led him 
into an explanation and defence of them, but induced him to 
present her with a copy of Barclay's Apology. They parted 
mutually pleased with each other ; and an occasional inter- 
course and friendly interest was maintained between them 
until his death. Her name was Lydia Huntley, since better 
known as Lydia H. Sigourney. 

Thomas Kite was a pleasant travelling companion, possess- 
ing excellent conversational powers, an enquiring mind, a 
clear head, and a memory stored with anecdotes. He had 
also a facility in drawing others out, and in overcoming the 
reserve of strangers ; and he rarely, if ever, passed along in 
a stage or steamboat, that he did not elicit infbrmaticn from 
those about him, and engage them in pleasant and profitable 
discourse. He was not forward to obtrude his religious sen- 
timents on such occasions, but it not unfrequently happened 
that those who became interested in his general remarks, 
were desirous to converse on some of the doctrines of the So- 



1818.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



101 



ciety of Friends with one who, from his dress and address, 
appeared a consistent member. Thus he w 7 as often enabled 
to advocate the Truth — to enlighten the understanding of 
seeking minds, and to remove the prejudices of his hearers, 
without violating any of the conventional proprieties of life. 

His mind was tenderly alive to the spiritual trials and ex- 
ercises of the young, particularly such as he deemed under 
the preparing Hand for usefulness in the Church. Having 
written to a female whom he considered of this class, he re- 
ceived the following reply : 

Upper Darby, Seventh month 5th, 1818. 
It had been on my mind before I left home, to request thee 
to write ; but I was best satisfied to omit it, hoping thou 
wouldst be influenced by a motive more powerful than that 
of friendship. 

The single eye shall be filled with light ; but I have greatly 
feared that my eye being evil, my whole body has become 
full of darkness. I know not my vocation ; neither have I 
much reason to hope that I shall ever be qualified for useful- 
ness in the Church. Tis a mournful consideration, and it 
has often filled me with sadness. Perhaps if I were willing 
to be nothing, — to be laid aside as a broken vessel, — I might 
witness a preparation for service, though in a small degree, 
in the Master's house. Yet think not that I am too much 
depressed ; on the contrary, apathy, insensibility, more to be 
deplored than suffering, is my present state. Continue, my 
dear friend, thy intercession for me, that " Light may arise 
out of obscurity, and my darkness become as the noonday." 

After a long period of probation, the writer of the above 
letter came forth in the ministry. Her communications 
were short, and her voice in that line was only heard after 



102 MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1819. 



long intervals of silence. Her appearances were lively and 
very acceptable to her friends. 

A time of pressure had now commenced in the commercial 
world, and many failures among men of mercantile business 
and speculators in real estate took place. This state of things 
lasted for two or three years. Thomas Kite having given 
Stephen Pike a description of the difficulty in the community 
consequent thereon, received the following reply. It was 
written after the ice had obstructed steamboat navigation in 
the Delaware. 

Burlington, Twelfth month 30th, 1818. 
* * * Philadelphia seems to be fifty miles further 
from us than when the steamboat afforded an opportunity 
two or three times a day to transport ourselves thither in a 
couple of hours. Thou mentions the overturnings that are 
taking place in your city. On reading thy account, as at 
many other times, I have felt that 

" 'Tis pleasant, through the loopholes of retreat, 
To peep at such a world." 

'Tis true, I am obliged to ply a business replete with care 
and difficulty, but then I am never visited by bank notices ; 
and though I have no prospect of being quickly rich, I am 
not yet obliged to encroach upon my little fund of savings, 
but have a trifle to spare. 

THOS. KITE TO MARTHA JEFFERIS. 

Philadelphia, First month 29th, 1819. 
* * * My business is not very brisk, yet sufficiently 
so, with frugality, for a decent maintainance. I am content 
with my situation, and have no prospect of change, and I be- 
lieve Edith is pretty well satisfied. To be sure her cares and 



1819.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



103 



concerns in her family sometimes are trying, but afford her 
a noble opportunity of manifesting forbearance, patience, and 
other Christian virtues ; in the peaceful daily exercise of 
which I hope she and I may be favored to increase. My 
business is not so pressing but I find time, when a duty in 
the case is apprehended, to attend a neighboring meeting ; 
and am at times favored with a secret hope that I am not 
doing my own will therein, but seeking rather to serve the 
Holy One in the Gospel of his Son — an awfully important 
office ! What manner of persons ought such to be who as- 
sume it, in all holy conversation and godliness ? How far, 
very far, indeed, am I from having attained such an estab- 
lishment in righteousness as I believe is attainable, and which 
we are called to. May I not settle down into ease and security, 
but rather be incited to daily vigilance, that forgetting the 
things which are behind, I may press forward towards those 
things which are before,— even complete redemption and 
acceptance in Christ. And, dear sister, as the wish arises 
with freshness and fervency, may brother, and thou also, be 
found pressing forward. It is the will of the great Head of 
the Church, in this day of deep degeneracy, that his people 
should arise, shake themselves from the dust of the earth, and 
go forward. May you, placed as you are, in a station which 
makes your example conspicuous, be favored day by day with 
the renewings of Holy help, enabling you to take your jour- 
ney before the flock, speaking by the language of example 
the invitation, " Follow us, as we endeavor to follow Christ." 
Thus strengthened to overcome the evil in yourselves, you 
will be qualified to rule your own house well, and keeping 
your authority in the dignity of our Holy Head, you will 
be qualified more eminently to take care of the house of 
God, as instruments in his hand, who alone can enable us to 



104 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1819. 



work for his honor and our own peace. Excuse me, dear 
sister, for thus speaking to a beloved brother and sister of 
more experience than myself, and whose sympathetic desires 
for my preservation I have. 

I had omitted to notice thy query concerning dear S. 
Wilson's illness. She seemed recovering ; had been once out > 
but was taken on Seventh-day with bilious colic, which, after 
a painful conflict, terminated her earthly course on the fol- 
lowing Third-day, There is reason to believe an apprehen- 
sion had attended her mind, that her days' work was draw- 
ing to a close. Well, she was a precious plant in the Lord's 
heritage, and is, doubtless, transplanted to his everlasting 
kingdom. The Church has met with a loss which will be 
sincerely felt ; her particular intimates will miss her much, 
for she* was much beloved by them. But it is all well, be- 
ing his work who doeth all things well ; who is still able to 
raise the beggar from the dunghill, and set him with the 
princes of his people ; to call strangers in to feed his flock, 
and to make the sons of the aliens plowmen and vinedressers ; 
whilst the children of his family who abide under his form- 
ing hand, will not be cast off, but will be made priests and 
ministers unto Him. Thus we have the consolation of be- 
lieving, that the foundation remains. Though one genera- 
tion goeth and another cometh, the Word of the Lord abideth 
forever. 

T. KITE TO JOSHUA SHARPLESS. 

Philadelphia, Seventh month 13th, 1819. 
Dear Father : — I wrote to thee a few days ago on the 
state of our health, and that of the city generally, but no 

* A minister of the Southern District Monthly Meeting, deceased 
Twelfth month 29th, 1818. 



1819.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



105 



opportunity presented of sending the letter, and, therefore, 
thinking you may have reports which have been circulated 
on the subject of the yellow fever, and feel some anxiety for 
us, I have concluded to write again. There have been in the 
neighborhood of Market street wharf, a few T cases of ma- 
lignant fever, of which about five persons have died. The 
Board of Health has caused the removal of those who have 
taken [the disease] as fast as they came to its knowledge. 
This they deemed a measure of prudent precaution ; as also 
the cleaning of certain dirty and offensive places in that 
vicinity. I know T of no new case yesterday or to-day. The 
city in general is remarkably healthy. My family, except- 
ing little Thomas, enjoy their accustomed health. 

The times, as to business, are remarkably dull, and there 
have been some considerable failures. Indeed, the w T ild 
speculating spirit which has prevailed, and which led to the 
present embarrassments, has met with a serious check. It is 
to be hoped that warning may be taken, and a different man- 
ner of business adopted, which will lead to more favorable 
results. 

Thomas Kite, Jr., the third and last child of Thomas and 
Edith Kite (born Second month 25th, 1818), was now very 
unwell, and his mother, soon after the above letter was writ- 
ten, went with him to her father's, in East Bradford, to try 
whether country air would not recruit him. Whilst there, 
Edith Kite received the following letter from her husband : 

* * * " Samuel Bettle and George Williams left home 
yesterday on their way towards Ohio. Perhaps if thou hadst 
written thou couldst have informed whether uncle John 
Letchworth was set at liberty by the Western Quarter.* 

* J. L. was set at liberty, and paid a religious visit west of the 
mountains, attending the Yearly Meeting in course. 

8 



106 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1819. 



From Byberry we hear that our friends there are mourning 
the removal of Ezra Townsend * Perhaps a greater loss to 
that meeting and neighborhood could not have taken place. 
To have a man of his experience and exemplary deportment, 
which gave him a great place in the minds of Friends, re- 
moved in the full possession of his powers and usefulness, 
seems to have occasioned a general mourning amongst his 
neighbors. But, no doubt, it is in wisdom ; and He who has 
removed and is removing from the militant to the triumph- 
ant Church, those who have long borne the burden and heat 
of the day, can, and, we humbly trust, will continue to qualify 
those who are made ' willing in the day of his power/ to suc- 
ceed such in a faithful testimony to the Truth. May est thou, 
and I, dearest, be amongst the number of those who are wit- 
nessing the cleansing baptisms of the Spirit, increasing in 
weight and religious experience, faithfully serving our gene- 
ration, and witnessing a gradual preparation for that awful 
day, when we may be enabled to do it, in humble hope that 
our sins are forgiven us ' for his name's sake/ who hath loved 
us and whom we have desired to serve. Oh, my dear, it is 
animating to be favored with a hope of admission within the 
pearl gates to the general assembly and Church of the first 
born ; and what a tendency such a hope has to raise desires 
that even here we may be purified even as He is pure, — that 
heavenly dispositions may be implanted, and all unholy af- 
fections done away. But alas for myself! when I consider 
how far I am from such an attainment, my own weakness 
and the strength of surrounding temptations, my heart is 
ready to meditate terror. Pray for me, that, having preached 
unto others, I may not become a castaw T ay from Divine favor 
and acceptance. I hardly know how to cease, such is the 
*An elder; he deceased Eighth month 14th, 1819, aged 60. 



1819.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



107 



solicitude unexpectedly awakened for our increasing dedica- 
tion to the ' God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of 
whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named.' But 
I pause, with recommending us to Him, and to his keeping, 
who only is able to keep us from falling, and to present us 
faultless before the throne of his glory with exceeding joy." 

The young child continuing ill, — so much so that the 
mother despaired of his life, — their stay in the country was 
prolonged. On receiving which information T. K. wrote : 

Mnth month 7th, 1819. 
I feel such a void, in thy absence, I hardly know how to 
spare thee longer, yet if thy health, or that of our dear boy 
requires it, I must endeavor to submit. I rank amongst the 
chief blessings of my life, my happy connexion in marriage 
with my dearest earthly friend ; and I feel that more than 
six years' experience of its comforts has increased my affec- 
tionate attachment. Yet, whilst I desire to be grateful to 
that kind Providence who has provided me with so beloved 
a companion, I also desire to be preserved from such an 
undue or inordinate affection for the gift, as might lead to a 
neglect of the Giver. Often has the aspiration been excited, 
that our union, through the sanctifying influence of our 
Heavenly Father, may be more and more purified ; and that 
whilst w 7 e are permitted to feel the comforts which flow 7 from 
our mutual, natural affection, we may experience an enlarge- 
ment in that blessed communion which is spiritual and divine : 
and to this end much have I craved, that we may be frequent 
and fervent in waiting for, and feeling after those baptisms 
which cleanse the heart and preserve it sweet and tender. 
Thus favored, may we not hope that death itself will not 
separate us long ? — a thought calculated to afford the survivor 



108 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1820. 



comfort in a trying hour. Indeed, in every situation we can 
be placed in on this probationary scene, how consoling the 
evidence that we have an interest in Him who hath abolished 
death, and brought life and immortality to light through the 
Gospel. Oh ! that this consolation may be ours ! 

Although under much anxiety about the health of his 
child, Thomas Kite believed it right to mention to the 
Friends of his Monthly Meeting, held Ninth month 23rd, a 
prospect of religious service which had been long ripening 
on his mind. This concern, as expressed by the Minute 
granted him was " to pay a religious visit to the meetings 
composing the Monthly Meetings of Exeter, Eoaring Creek 
and Muncy : also, the meetings belonging to Centre Monthly 
Meeting within the compass of Warrington Quarter." He 
had the unity of his friends, and the company of his brother- 
in-law, Joseph Walton. 

1820. At an adjournment of Philadelphia Monthly Meet- 
ing, held Second month 3rd, 1820, Thomas Kite received 
a minute to attend a few meetings within the limits of Abing- 
ton Quarterly Meeting, and some in that of Shrewsbury and 
Rahway. On the eighth he left Philadelphia to accomplish 
his prospect, having Charles Townsend as a companion. Of 
this journey some particulars are given in his letters. 

THOMAS KITE TO HIS WIFE. 

Mendham, Second month 12th, 1820. 
I will begin at our departure, which was, as thou recollects, 
no doubt, on the afternoon of last Third-day [the 8th]. That 
evening we reached Dr. Mitchell's at Horsham ; were kindly 
entertained ; and on Fourth-day morning rode to Watson 
Fell's, at Solebury, to dinner. Whilst we were there it began 



1820.] MEMO IK OF THOMAS KITE. 



109 



to snow; bat we pushed on through it, and arrived at Henry 
Clifton's, at Kingwood, near night. We were kindly receiv- 
ed, and pleased with meeting our friend Abraham Lower, 
who had an appointed meeting there that morning, and had 
been detained by the badness of the roads, the snow not per- 
mitting him and his companion proceeding in their chair. 
Fifth-day morning, in company with him, I attended the 
Select Preparative Meeting, which is held at nine o'clock, as 
also the Monthly Meeting, which begins at eleven. In the 
afternoon, leaving Abraham, and his companion Joseph 
Warner, at Henry Cliftons, we proceeded towards Randolph, 
in the face of a severe fall of snow, having Joseph Stevenson 
for a guide. By tying our handkerchiefs over our hats and 
faces, w r e secured ourselves somewhat against the driving 
snow, and stopped for the night at John Dawes', an aged 
Friend, who lives remote from any other of the Society. In 
the welfare of himself and family of daughters, apparently 
amiable and intelligent young women, we were much inter- 
ested. In the night a large quantity of snow fell, in conse- 
quence of which, instead of reaching Randolph on Sixth-day, 
as we expected, we scarcely exceeded half that distance. 
Such travelling I never saw ; snow-drifts nearly or quite to 
the horses' backs. Frequently having to break the road for 
considerable distances ; at other times getting into fields to 
avoid heavy drifts —altogether obstructed our progress so 
much that it was noon by the time we had travelled about 
six miles. Towards evening we arrived near a tavern, but 
hearing they were without hay, and probably without oats, 
we petitioned a Presbyterian farmer to take us in, who 
willingly consented. His wife, we found, was descended 
from Friends ; himself very zealous [in his belief] yet not 
bigoted. His brother-in-law, a physician, was present, and 



110 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1820. 



much interesting conversation relative to our principles, 
occupied the evening, towards the close of which way opened 
for a religious opportunity. Indeed, unlike any former 
journey, my way has opened in several families already for 
services of this kind, to my own peace. 

This morning [Seventh-day the 12th], we have also had 
our difficulties, though on the whole travelling is rather im- 
proved. We have come (having parted with our guide) 
about twelve miles to Aaron Boker's, who formerly lived in 
Philadelphia, and whose wife is a member. [At his house] 
we have just dined. We have about nine miles to go this 
afternoon, which, with calling a few minutes on Samuel H. 
Cox, which we propose to do, will probably occupy us till 
near night. To morrow [First-day] we propose being at 
Randolph Meeting — and nothing further is clear at present. 
As thou knows how deeply I was depressed under the pros- 
pect of leaving home, I think it right to say I have been 
remarkably supported in calmness and contentment ; so that 
nothing I have met with has been hard to bear, and scarcely 
unpleasant. 

T. K. TO HIS WIFE. 

- KaDdolpk, Second month 14th, 1820. 
I wrote from Aaron Boker's, bringing my account down 
to Seventh-day afternoon. After leaving his house we rode 
to Samuel H. Cox's, who professed himself glad to see us. 
After a short visit we pursued our way towards this place, 
but found such heavy snow-drifts that it seemed impossible 
to get our horses through. We had to dismount and en- 
courage them to plunge onward a few paces and then stop 
them to rest, as my mare in particular seemed ready to give 
out. At length we reached a beaten road which lasted nearly 



1820.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



Ill 



to this place, [our way was then along] a road which no one 
had passed. We endeavored to hire a man to go wdth us ; 
but he told us he w 7 as afraid it would kill his horse to go 
through the snow. So we were obliged to venture without a 
guide* and nigfct coming on, very great was our difficulty, — 
often we were on the point of giving out. My colt having 
scarcely strength or patience to get through the drifts, was 
kicking, and plunging and exhausting herself, whilst I 
wading and falling about, was endeavoring to guide her by 
the bridle. At length we gave out. After getting the horses 
onto a bank in the wood, I left Charles with them, and 
plunged into the snow, to endeavor to reach a house, the 
light of which glimmered through the darkness. We knew 7 
from information [this house] must be that to which we were 
bound. I left the road to try the fields, but the darkness 
not permitting me to distinguish the drifts, I frequently fell, 
and thought of Thompson's description of a man perishing 
in the snow. Having regained the road, I reached Thomas 
Dell's house much exhausted, in a profuse sweat, and glad to 
get there. He (T. D.) kindly sent three stout sons to Charles' 
assistance, and they succeeded in getting our horses through. 
Charles says he had a time of very comfortable meditation in 
the woods. A good supper cheerfully prepared by kind and 
hospitable friends w T as very refreshing. We yesterday, First- 
day, attended the meeting here, w T hich was large for the 
place, many of the neighbors attending. It was, I trust, a 
solemn and profitable opportunity. As there is said to be 
no suitable stopping place between this and Hardwicke, dis- 
tant 18 or 20 miles, and w r e have had so much bad road, we 
concluded [yesterday] to rest until this morning and then 
set out with a view of being at meeting there to-morrow. We 
are now waiting for breakfast. Last evening Abraham 



112 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1820. 



Lower and company again met us, they having been at 
Harchvicke Meeting in the morning, and come on in a sleigh. 
They are bound to Railway to the Quarterly Meeting. * * 
My mind continues to be sustained in quietness and resigna- 
tion, which I esteem a favor indeed. * * 

A short account of the rest of this journey is contained in 
the following extract from a letter to his father-in-law. 

" Second-day the 14th. We rode to Hardwicke, formerly 
Great Meadows, where on Third-day we had a meeting ; and 
that afternoon crossing the Delaware on the ice, we passed 
through the Water Gap to Stroudsburg. There we waited to 
attend their usual week-day meeting on Fifth-day, and rode 
in the evening to Easton, and were kindly entertained at the 
house of Mordecai Churchman. Sixth-day we rode to Rich- 
land expecting to have a meeting there on Seventh-day ; but 
on arriving at 2 o'clock found Friends going into the meet- 
ing-house to a meeting of Amos Peisley's. Tired as we were 
we attended this, and way opened to relieve my mind, so 
that on Seventh-day we felt at liberty to return home." 

A few days after Thomas Kite left Randolph, the follow- 
ing letter was addressed to him by a friend, of that place. 

HYALE Aim SAMMES TO T. K. 

Randolph, Second month 17th, 1820. 
It has been on my mind this sometime to write thee a 
letter, feeling drawn towards thee in that love which unites 
together the children of our Heavenly Father, and causes 
them to feel near one to another, when distant as to bodily 
presence. These can sympathize with each other in their 
trials and exercises, and can also rejoice with them in their 
consolations. Dear brother, for I believe I may call thee so, 



1820.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



113 



I have often thought of thee since I saw thee at Shrewsbury. 
I esteem it a favor that thou shouldst have taken notice of 
me, and felt for me, a poor unworthy creature, one of the 
least among the thousands of Israel, if numbered among them 
at all. Yet I feel the evidence that I sincerely desire the 
welfare of my fellow mortals. Unto God would I commit 
my cause, who alone can qualify his humble depending chil- 
dren and prepare them for his work and service. I know 
without Christ I can do nothing. May I always, look to 
Him with an eye of faith. He is my only helper; and I 
desire no other. May we be encouraged to go in the way of 
his holy leading, casting all our care upon Him, for He 
careth for us. 

Soon after reaching Philadelphia, Thomas Kite received a 
letter from his friend John Phillips, an elder of New Garden 
Monthly Meeting, Chester County, a portion of which is 
given. 

Kennet, Second month 22nd, 1820. 
The choice little, weakly, Mildred Eatcliffe was here, and 
in this neighborhood about two weeks past ; and I thought 
her much favored in some close and feeling testimonies 
amongst us. She is busily travelling this cold weather. My 
wife [Lydia Phillips, a minister,] got home about six weeks 
since. She was away about six months, and much favored 
with health nearly all the time. They went through the 
State of Ohio, part of Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee, North 
and South Carolina, so through Virginia, home. They at- 
tended the Yearly Meeting in Carolina, w T hich they thought 
a favored one, [having] a large number of innocent, goodly 
Friends, who treated them with much kindness and affection. 
I have no doubt they kept open houses in the fullest extent 



114 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1820. 



of the word. Rachel Barnard* took a bad cold when about 
Cincinnati, with some fever ; she got a little better, went on, 
came to Carolina, and the meeting-house [being] open and 
without fire, and the weather uncommonly cold for the season, 
she got it renewed. She was frequently unwell on her way 
home, and [has not been] very well since. 

In a letter to Joshua Sharpless dated Fifth month 29th, 
1820, Thomas Kite says : 

"William Foster, so long expected, has arrived from Eng- 
land. He is but 33 years old. His prospect is to visit 
Friends and others on this continent, and some of the West 
India Islands. After Xew York Yearly Meeting he expects 
to go to ]Sew England." 

George Dillwyn, that venerable minister of the Gospel of 
Christ, having by a fall during the preceding winter injured 
his hip, had been since that period declining in health. On 
the 23rd of the Sixth month, 1820, he was released by death, 
having a few months before completed his 82nd year. The 
following letter gives some account of his latter hours. 

STEPHEN PIKE TO T. K. 

Burlington, Sixth month 23rd, 1820. 
Dear Friend : — As sad intelligence is of rapid flight, 
thou wilt perhaps have learned before this reaches thee, that 
" a prince and a great man hath this day fallen in Israel." 
Our doubly- honored and beloved friend George Dillwyn, 
being removed by the hand of death from this scene of his 
long continued and very useful labors. My first impressions on 
hearing of the circumstance were solemn, but not accompanied 

* A minister of Xew Garden Monthly Meeting travelling with 
Lvdia Phillips. 



1820.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 115 

with much of the sadness produced by deep regret ; for I am 
fully convinced that having fought the good fight and kept 
the faith, his course is finished with the approbation, and by 
the appointment of Him whose wisdom and goodness are 
both without bounds. The suddenness of the change was 
rather surprising ; though it was not supposed he would con- 
tinue long with us, as he had in addition to his hurt, the 
cholera morbus. He was free for a day or two past from 
the latter complaint, [and] it was thought he might continue 
some weeks longer. He conversed, as I understand, very 
freely and pleasantly with those around him, and said, that, 
except his lameness, he felt as if he were well. In this situa- 
tion he went to sleep and never awaked, but passed aw T ay 
quietly about five in the afternoon, without any symptoms of 
approaching dissolution, except a little unusual motion in 
the muscles of his face. I find that the' impressions of others 
on this occasion are similar to my own — those of solemnity 
without sorrow. After an unusually long pause at the tea 
table, John Cox, in a very solemn manner, expressed a short 
ejaculation to this effect : " We would not approach thee 
with unhallowed lips, but we feel engaged to say, ' Thy name 
is as ointment poured forth, therefore do the virgins love 
thee.' " 

George's poor widow, now a little childish, who has been 
very fondly and strongly attached to him during upwards of 
60 years that they have been united, feels the separation 
very greatly. She obtains the sympathy of her friends. 

T. K. TO JOSHUA SHARPLESS. 

Philadelphia, Sixth month 26th, 1820. 
Dear Father : — I thought it might perhaps interest thee 
to hear of the removal from the present scene, of two precious 



116 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1820. 



Friends, the one in the meridian the other in the declining 
years of life, George Dillwyn and Mary Morris, wife of Israel. 

The latter was under nomination from our Quarterly 
Meeting to visit some of the meetings belonging to it ; and 
was to have started on Sixth-day. The day previous she 
was taken with cholera morbus, which carried her off in 
twenty-two hours. She dying about 4 o'clock on Sixth-day 
morning. She was a sweet-spirited Friend, very useful in her 
family and meeting, and had for some time past, appeared in 
the ministry. I went out to Merion to the funeral on Seventh- 
day afternoon. It was largely attended and a sweet solemnity 
was thought to prevail ; divers testimonies being borne under 
a sense of the blessedness of those who die in the Lord. 

Dear George Dillwyn since his hurt, has been rather de- 
clining ; and was also taken with cholera morbus, but ap- 
j)eared to obtain relief, so that on Sixth-day, conversing 
cheerfully with his friends, he said, that except his lameness 
he felt quite well. Thus circumstanced he went to sleep, 
but never awoke, passing quietly away to the mansion pre- 
pared for him, without any symptom of approaching dissolu- 
tion excepting a little unusual motion of the muscles of his 
face. Though it feels solemn, yet there is no cause for sorrow ; 
full of years, as a shock of corn fully ripe, having kept the 
faith and finished his course, he no doubt enjoys the crown 
laid up for the righteous. 

During the # summer of this year, 1820, a few cases of 
highly malignant bilious fever occurred in the City of Phila- 
delphia, which, of course, gave occasion for an alarm through 
the country that the yellow fever had once more visited the 
place. T. K. went to Lancaster County during the Eighth 
month. 



1820.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



117 



STEPHEN PIKE TO T. K. 

Burlington, Tenth month 1st, 1820. 
Elizabeth Foulke,* who is next door to us, is thought to 
be sinking pretty fast. It is the doctor's opinion that she is 
not likely to remain long. She has suffered a great deal ; 
and as there is no hope of her recovery, I shall be glad to 
hear of her release. It is a great favor that she has the full 
and proper exercise of her faculties, though within a few 7 
days she declines conversation. She appears frequently to 
be in private supplication, which shows the foundation of 
her hope. 

T. K. TO JOSHUA SHARPLESS. 

Philadelphia, Tenth month 13th, 1820. 
Dear Father : — Hearing from brother Isaac of thy in- 
creased suffering, has awakened feelings of sympathy and 
commiseration. Under the anguish which I can readily 
conceive thou must endure, I have felt a desire that the 
power and presence of Israel's Shepherd may be witnessed, 
enabling thee to support with a degree of patience those re- 
maining probations, which will probably ere long wear out 
the poor afflicted tabernacle, and release the immortal part 
to its everlasting home. It has not been uncommon, I be- 
lieve, in the wisdom of Him whose counsel is unsearchable, 
for his dear children near the close of lives of dedication, to 
be closely tried in many ways, even as to an hair's breadth. 
And it is not marvellous that it should be so, when the Great 
Pattern submitted to the same cup and baptism. Great, no 
doubt, was his distress, both of bodily suffering in his humanity, 

* Elizabeth Foulke was a minister belonging to Philadelphia 
Monthly Meeting. She died Tenth month 19th, aged 63 years. 



118 MEMOIR OF THMOA8 KITE. [1820. 



and a sense of the sins of a fallen race, when He cried out, 
" My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me ?" Yet soon 
the conflict ended, and He ascended to his God and our God : 
and though his followers who have endeavored to continue 
with Him may be at seasons, when the bitterness of anguish 
is felt, almost ready to conclude they are forsaken, yet the 
everlasting Arm is underneath, and for the elects' sake those 
days of suffering will be shortened, the conflict ended, and 
they enabled to ascend to their prepared mansions, triumph- 
ing in the power of an endless life, over death, hell and the 
grave. A firm persuasion that this will be the blessed end 
and consummation of all thy trials, my dear father, has afforded 
some comfort under the trial which thy increased afflictions 
have occasioned. An end unspeakably glorious. No more 
pain, neither sorrow nor crying, and God himself shall wipe 
all tears away. I might enlarge further, but hope this will 
suffice thee. I have had feeling with thee. Edith sends her 
love, and also unites with me in the expression of it to mother 
and sister; who we hope will experience the fulfilment of 
the promise, " As is thy day so shall thy strength be." 

In the Tenth month T. K. attended the Southern Quarterly 
Meeting, and beside" the labor which fell to his share in the 
public meetings, he appears to have had frequent religious 
opportunities in families, visiting, as way opened, the afflicted. 
He was absent from home on this little journey about eight 
days. 

T. K. TO JOSHUA SHARPLESS. 

Philadelphia, Twelfth month 19th, 1820. 
Dear Father : — Our cousin Ann Yarnall departed this 
life last Seventh-day night, continuing to the last, when not 



1820.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



119 



under the influence of delirium, supported in her mind by a 
comfortable hope that she was about to be gathered to the 
habitation of the blessed. Her remains were yesterday de- 
posited in our burying place ; and in the evening a number 
of her connexions being collected at her late abode, a relig- 
ious opportunity took place, in which the covering of Divine 
Good was eminently witnessed. I was present, having gone 
thither from an apprehension of duty, not knowing that so 
many were likely to be there. Testimony was borne to the 
sufficiency of that Divine power that enabled her to be faith- 
ful in the line of duty — to visit the sick and afflicted, and 
minister to the necessities of the poor ; and the young people 
were invited to bow to the operation of it, that they might 
become qualified thereby, to fill up their allotted portions of 
duty in the church and imthe world. The blessing of having 
the Lord for their friend in the trying hour of approaching 
dissolution, was set before them. Amongst others, Elizabeth 
Pitfield was very sweetly engaged in a strain of persuasive 
Gospel ministry. Poor cousin Nathan* has been informed 
of his wife's decease, and w 7 as brought in the morning to see 
the corpse. He was sensibly affected ; and his behavior was 
more quiet and composed than has of late been common. 

I thought thou would, perhaps, be willing to hear that on 
First-day last I had a meeting in the morning with the male 
convicts in our prison. About three hundred and ninety 
were present. Their deportment on the whole was becoming, 
and there were many of them very attentive to what was of- 
fered for their consideration. In the afternoon I had the 
company of the female convicts, in number not exceeding 
forty, who were also commenclably quiet and orderly. The 
flowing of gospel love was felt in both the opportunities, and 
* Nathan Yarnall, then laboring under alienation of mind. 



120 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1821. 



its message declared to them, I humbly hope, in a degree of 
his authority, who was anointed " to preach deliverance to the 
captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are 
bound ; to preach the acceptable year of the Lord." If any 
of their hearts were at all reached, to Him be the glory. 

T. K. TO EDITH KITE. 

Philadelphia, Eighth month 22nd, 1821. 
Since thou left several friends have deceased. Josiah 
Hewes, on Fifth-day evening ; John Alsop, on First-day 
morning. Having called to inquire after the latter, I was 
present at his close, which was remarkably quiet. Though 
solemn, yet the scene was attended with calm and pleasing 
sensations to my mind. John Wilson, a nephew of Joshua 
Harlan, was buried last evening, and this morning Ludawick 
Laws is to be interred. He went to the sea shore, I believe, 
in usual health, a few days ago for bathing, was taken with 
bilious colic, which terminated his life. Thus are we fur- 
nished with admonitions to endeavor to be ready when the 
time of our dismission comes. 

In the early part of the Eighth month, Thomas Kite, hav- 
ing business requiring his attention in New York, took his 
wife with him there. His daughter, Susanna, then at the 
house of her uncle, Cheyney Jefferis, on a visit, wrote him a 
letter, directed to Boston. He replied to her in a pleasant 
manner, calculated to please a child of twelve years of age, 
who was very fond of cats and kittens, and had in the letter 
enquired after her feline favorites at home. 

Philadelphia, Eighth month 21st, 1821. 
Dear Daughter : — I received thy very acceptable letter, 
not at Boston, but at home. Thou wast mistaken in suppos- 



1821.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



121 



ing my intention to be to go so far as Boston. Thou hast, 
no doubt, heard of thy mother being at her father's. We 
returned from New York on Fourth-day last, and found thy 
uncle Nathan [Sharpless] here, prepared to take her out. 
Thou wilt probably get to see her. She took Rebecca with 
her, and has left her at Concord, I expect. Susan Renouf 
[a domestic in the family] is at grandfather Kite's. Our 
house is very quiet and lonesome. The cat and kitten are in 
very good health, as far as w T e may judge from appearances, 
for though the old one seems rather sedate, the young one is 
frolicsome enough. It is quite agreeable to hear that you 
are going to school. Be diligent, and, dear child, don't be 
wild, but endeavor to be a good girl. Thou art not too 
young to have serious thoughts of thy duty to thy great 
Creator ; and I hope when thou sits in meeting, and at other 
times, thou feels desirous to live in his favor, and have Him 
for the Guide of thy youth. This is thy affectionate father's 
wish for thee. 

I went out to Frankford last evening to see thy aunt Abi 
[Walton], and returned this morning. The family there is 
in usual health. Thy grandmother is not quite well, though 
better than she was a few weeks ago. Thy grandfather has 
gone to By berry. I have little more to add at present, ex- 
cept to desire my love to thy uncle, aunt, and the children. 
And please mention to little Joshua, that father sends his 
love to him. 

T. K. TO JOSHUA SHARPLESS. 

Philadelphia, Tenth month 16th, 1821. 
Dear Father : — It has been a time of uncommon sick- 
ness in many parts of the country, and also in the city ; 
mostly with those who have been spending some time out of 
9 



122 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1822. 



town. We know of no neighborhood near the city where it 
has been much more mortal than at the Asylum. Several 
have died there. Our cousin, Nathan Yarnall, amongst 
them, though not of the prevailing fever. On Seventh-day 
afternoon he appeared to go into a kind of stupor, after hav- 
ing eaten his dinner, which increased, and about half-past one 
at night, he quietly departed. Sister Abigail Sharpless ac- 
companied Edith and me to the funeral on Second-day, at 
Frankford. It was very small, but one of uncle Ellis' family 
being there^ occasioned by the prevalence of the fever in the 
family. Uncle, aunt, Sarah, and Edward, had been sick 
with it. Of these, uncle is supposed to be the most unwell. 
Indeed, his situation is thought critical. Sybil Dawes de- 
ceased a few days ago. During the early part of her illness, 
which lasted, perhaps, ten days, she appeared favored with a 
renewed visitation of Divine goodness, in which past failings 
were brought into view, and forgiveness experienced, so that 
a reconciliation to the prospect of the closing scene was merci- 
fully afforded. 

SARAH HUMPHREYS TO T. K. 

First month 8th, 1822. 
I feel much interested for the welfare of Zion and the en- 
largement of her borders, and my heart mourns for the deso- 
lation of that part [Radnor Monthly Meeting] of the vine- 
yard, and believe the work is marred on the wheel by an 
unwillingness in some to serve the Lord, who seem as if they 
would not so much as touch a burden with one of their fin- 
gers ; and by the expressive language of conduct are saying, 
we will not have this man to rule over us. Oh, what lovely 
plants in the Lord's garden might some of these be, if they 
were but willing in simplicity to yield themselves into his 



1822.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



123 



hands, to be anything or nothing, as He might see meet ! 
How would He qualify such to go forth as valiants who are 
* now lying as among the pots ! Truly our sufficiency is not 
of ourselves, but of God, and our help cometh from Him, 
and not* from man, whose breath is in his nostrils — and 
whereof is he to be accounted of? I feel as one of the weak- 
lings of the flock, and one of the least in the family, needing 
the prayers and the help of the rightly exercised that I fall 
not to the right or left. Weak as I am, the desire of my 
heart at this time is, that all who see and feel the necessity 
for faithfully laboring as God may give ability, may seek to 
be preserved in that state of true humility, as to be willing 
to do the meanest office in the King's house, — to bear the cross 
and despise the shame, that so the blessed cause of Truth and 
righteousness may be exalted in the earth, and they at last, 
when their day's work is done, may be set down at the right 
hand of God, far above all principalities and powers, bearing 
the inscription of " holiness unto the Lord !" 

Under a previous feeling of love, flowing, as I humbly 
trust, from the Father of Mercies, I bid thee, affectionately, 
farewell. 

T. K. TO JOSHUA SHARPLESS. 

Philadelphia, First month 12th, 1822. 
Dear Father : — * ■ * * The Yearly Meeting's Com- 
mittee are at present visiting the Monthly Meeting of Bur- 
lington and Haddonfield Quarterly Meetings. We hear 
William Forster has gone into the Illinois country. Geo. 
Withy was at Washington on First-day last, wishing to have 
a meeting in the Capitol ; but a Baptist preacher having had 
a previous grant, he was disappointed. It was uncertain 
whether he would stay over another First-day. Thos. Evans, 



124 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1822. 



son of Jonathan, is his companion in this southern journey, 
which will probably extend to Carolina. 

I have heard of thy more comfortable state of health, and 1 
have felt tender desires that whether it may please the Su- 
preme Control] er of events still further to restore ft) health, 
or whether increasing pain and weakness may be attendant, 
thy mind may be preserved in the everlasting patience, 
deeply anchored on Him who has been thy morning light, 
thy strength in the meridian of thy day, and, I trust, will be 
thy evening song. Paul, that experienced servant of Jesus, 
was deeply tried with a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of 
Satan sent to buffet him. We hardly know what particular 
trial he alludes to ; perhaps it was the irritability of a tem- 
per naturally quick and ardent. Whatever it was, he sought 
its removal. " I besought the Lord thrice," said he, " that 
it might be taken from me," and the gracious answ T er was, 
not that he should be exempt from the trial, but sustained 
under it: fc< My grace is sufficient for thee, for my strength is 
made perfect in weakness." Very encouraging for those who 
may, like Paul, be tried, singly to depend upon the sufficient 
grace of our Holy Redeemer, who, having loved his own, 
loveth them unto the end, and enables them, through his 
power, to overcome all the propensities of corrupt nature, 
and finally to triumph over death, hell, and the grave. 

Thomas Kite's oldest daughter, Susanna, was placed at 
Westtown Boarding School in the latter part of the Fourth 
month, 1822. Her first letter on the 24th, tells of her childish 
griefs — her alarm the first morning after her arrival at the 
sound of the great bell, calling the scholars to arise ; as she 
thought, in her half-awakened state, that she was in the city 
and heard the fire-bell. She appears to have been afflicted 



1822.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



125 



with home-sickness— had had a hearty cry — and thought 
herself thereby disqualified to write. Under date of Fifth 
month 4th, her father thus wrote to her. 

" Dear Susanna:— I was disappointed in not receiving a 
letter from thee by the last stage. If permitted, I should 
like to hear from thee frequently. Thou canst be at no loss 
for subjects to write on which will interest thy parents, who 
feel anxiously solicitous for thy good every way. Thy studies 
— thy companions— the little incidents of the school — your 
meetings for worship — all these, and many other subjects, 
will prove to us interesting from thy pen. We feel for thee, 
not doubting that at first the trial to thy feelings in being- 
separated, will be considerable. It is so to ours. But be 
encouraged ; attention to thy business will assist in shaking 
off unprofitable regrets; and thou wilt soon feel comfortable 
amidst thy new associates, towards all of whom I wish thee 
to behave with perfect kindness, w r hilst thou art not very 
intimate, except with a few." 

Susanna, having informed her parents in one of her letters, 
that it was against the " order" of the school for her to have 
been thus employed at the time she wrote it — her father 
replied : 

Philadelphia, Fifth month 9th, 1822. 

Pleasant as it is to receive letters from thee, I have no 
wish thou should infringe the rules of the school, nor even 
go counter in the least degree to the wishes of the teachers. 
4 When thou hast an opportunity to write, begin a letter and 
add from time to time until the paper is full. Write as 
neatly as thou canst. 

It is my particular wish that thy behavior may be toward 
thy teachers both respectful and affectionate. Never appear 
heedless or unmindful when addressed by them, but endeavor 



126 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1822. 



by prudent conduct to gain their confidence. It will add 
much to thy comfort, and afford thy mother and myself 
sincere satisfaction. I will just add, whilst I am advising 
thee, a hope that thou wilt be particularly careful of thy 
deportment in meeting. Let it be serious, and, dear child, 
endeavor to have thy thoughts collected as in the presence 
of the Holy One, that thus a qualification may be furnished 
thee to worship ; to rejoice in his goodness, to fear before 
him, to choose him for thy portion, to say unto him in the 
secret of thy heart, " My father, thou art the Guide of my 
youth." Oh ! that thou mayest be thus favored. How earthly 
distinctions and earthly advantages fade when compared with 
these spiritual blessings. Learning is good ; the outward 
comforts of life are good ; it is a favor to have kind parents 
aud affectionate friends ; but what are these compared with 
being the sons and daughters of the Most High, instructed 
in the school of Christ, and united to the blessed society of 
the saints in light. Keep this in thy view above all other 
acquisitions or advantages. The benefit will be experienced 
not only here but hereafter; for godliness is profitable unto 
all things, having the promise of this life, and that which is 
to come. 

Now, for news. George Withy had a meeting for the 
young people of the city on Third-clay afternoon. A great 
collection — but he did not preach ; a great disappointment 
to many. * * * 

After visiting his daughter at Westtown, T. K. wrote to 
her, Fifth month 17th. 

" When I left thee on Second-day evening, I went to thy 
grandfather's to lodge. In the morning I walked up to the 
top of Osbourne's Hill, and heard the music of the little 



1822.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



127 



birds, as well as feasted my eyes with the delightful prospect 
of the cultivated hills of the Brandy wine. I have seen few 
more lovely landscapes in my travels. We went to Concord 
to the Quarterly Meeting, and lodged at Samuel West's, 
near Chester; attended Chester meeting on Fourth-day, 
where was a marriage ; dined with the wedding company, 
and reached home in the evening. * * * I have but 
little to say more than this ; frequently ask thyself in thy 
amusements, ' Would my father approve of this?' My dear 
child, thy preservation in innocency is a wish that is very 
near my heart." 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER SUSANNA. 

Sixth month 17th, 1822. 
* * * I do not wish for thee, my dear, anything far 
beyond the common standard, yet I do w 7 ish for thy diligent 
improvement of the faculties thou art favored with. Not 
that thou may shine and be applauded, but that thou may 
be qualified to discharge thy duty in any situation of thy 
future life. The habit of industry is of great consequence, 
and when we consider how uncertain all temporal possessions 
are, it seems peculiarly important that we acquire habits in 
youth which may render it easy to labor for a subsistence, in 
case it should become necessary. Far more important is the 
habit as regards the concerns of the immortal part in us. In 
this respect we should be diligent, fervent, laboring to know 
ourselves to be redeemed from wrong things, from every 
habit, passion and propensity which will render us unac- 
ceptable in the Divine sight." 



128 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1822. 



SAME TO SAME. 

Sixth month 22nd, 1822. 

* * * I saw the Superintendent yesterday, and received 
from him a pleasant account of thy health and cheerfulness. 
I do not want thee to lose thy affectionate regard for thy 
friends at home ; but I do want thee to feel entirely contented 
where thou art, so long as it appears best for thee to remain 
there. This disposition will be valuable in assisting thee to 
prosecute thy studies to advantage ; for, remember, thou art 
not sent to Westtown to be amused, but to study, and this 
implies diligence, attention, assiduity. Nothing valuable is 
to be obtained without labor. I wish thee particularly to 
endeavor to cultivate a habit of abstraction, as essential to 
mental improvement. I mean that thou think only of the 
subject before thee. If thou suffer thy mind to be drawn 
aside by every trine that occurs, or thought that presents, it 
is hardly possible thou canst lay in a good stock of valuable 
knowledge. Keep close to the study before thee, endeavoring 
thoroughly to understand it — passing over nothing without 
clearly comprehending it, conquering weariness, disgust and 
the love of indolence. In this way, my dear daughter, thou 
wilt answer my design in sending thee to school, and lay up 
such a foundation of useful learning as will be pleasant to 
thyself and us in future days, should thy life be spared to us. 

* * * David Cope came with thy uncle Cheyney to 
attend some meetings in the city. He lodged at our house. 
Our friend Sarah Hopper is deceased. She had been a re- 
markably healthy woman, but since last fall her health has 
declined, and of late rapidly so. She was buried on the day 
appointed for the marriage of her brother John Tatum to 
Anne Biddle. Her own daughter's marriage is also pest- 



1822.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



129 



poned. She will be much missed in her large family. The 
children will feel the want of such a counsellor and friend, 
but if they apply to that Almighty Being, who has, no doubt 
removed her in wisdom, we have room to believe, that being 
the father of the fatherless, he will condescend to be the 
Guide of their youth. * * * 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER SUSANNA. 

Philadelphia, Sixth month 30th, 1822. 
Circumstances prevented my writing to my dear daughter 
by the last stage. * * I think I mentioned thy mother's 
visit to Woodbury on Seventh-day week. She did not re- 
turn till Fourth-day morning, when she and I attended the 
meeting at Twelfth street, when John Tatum and Anne Bid- 
die accomplished their marriage. * * * I cannot say I 
was pleased with thy observations respecting your food at 
Westtown. Wast thou in a humble, contented disposition, 
thou would feel that such fare was not only better than thy 
deservings, but cause of thankfulness to the bountiful Feeder 
of the human family. This leads me to mention what, perhaps, 
thou hast not heard, that in Ireland the poor are suffering 
for want even of the coarsest food. In many parts last year 
the crop of potatoes failed, and the horrors of famine, and 
consequent disease, have been experienced. When next thou 
takest thy plentiful meal, remember, that to thousands it 
would seem a feast of delicacies. There has been a great 
fire in Baltimore; about thirty houses destroyed, and much 
distress experienced. Thus is there continually occurring some- 
thing to call forth our tender commiseration for others ; and 
the sympathy we now give, we know not how soon we may 
need. This life is made up of changes. They, and they only, 
who, endeavoring to live in the fear of the Lord, and in 



130 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1822. 



obedience to his will, are prepared for every change. It is 
declared, "all things, work together for good to them that 
love God." I long more than my pen can express, that in 
thy young and tender years, thou may est be brought into 
the love of the Heavenly Father, and into the experience of 
his favor. Oh ! how religion dignifies and adorns the beloved 
youth, enabling them to fill up with propriety every station 
in which the providence of the Almighty places them ; and 
when their pilgrimage is terminated, how it 0}3ens to them an 
access to that blessed company that surround the throne of 
the Eternal in never-ending bliss. May a life of religion be 
thy deliberate choice, that, having lived the life, thou may 
die the death of the righteous. 

SAME TO SAME. 

Seventh month 5th, 1822. 

Deak Susan : — Thou knowest not the parental anxiety I 
feel for thy welfare every way. It is impossible for thee fully 
to appreciate it ; but thou art old enough to know, that the 
course of life I wish for thee, will conduce to thy happiness, 
to present peace — contentment in every situation — and if 
persisted in to the close of life, it will open the cheering hope 
of a blessed immortality. 

13th. It often happens to people who seek pleasure by 
change of place, that they come home disappointed. Happi- 
ness depends less on outward situation and circumstances 
than on the inward disposition of the mind. With a humble 
sense of how little we deserve, and a grateful sense of how 
much Providence has done for us, — a lively wish to fulfil all 
our own particular duties, and a continued endeavor to make 
all those around us comfortable, — we can hardly fail to be- 



1822.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



131 



come in a considerable degree happy, let oar outward situa- 
tion be what it may. 

19th. I spent nearly two days w 7 ith [his wife and family 
in Jersey], enjoying those beauties of nature, of which I per- 
ceive by thy letters, thou art sensible. Let us raise our hearts 
to the contemplation and love of the bountiful Author of 
nature, who has given us all things richly to enjoy. 

26th. On looking at thy letters I find another question 
unanswered. Thou say est, speaking of our coming to see 
thee, " if you all come at once, how can I part with you all?" 
Now, perhaps, to save thy feelings, we had better stay away 
altogether. Dost thou think so ? Dear child, thou must 
endeavor to control thy feelings, and discipline thy mind. 
Close attention to thy studies will be a good w 7 ay to get the 
better of thy excessive longings and anxieties about us. We 
prize thy love very highly, but would rather it w r ere shown 
in doubling thy diligence at school, that thou mayest be the 
sooner restored to us. 

There have been many deaths ; some of them so sudden as 
loudly to give the warning : " Be ye also ready !' ? A serious 
consideration of the end of life is proper even in the season 
of youth, and it is not incompa tible with cheerfulness, though 
it excludes levity. May the blessing of Providence be thy 
experience. 

30th. * * * There are some practices which unthink- 
ing young persons have fallen into, which I w T ish thee to avoid, 
such as speaking unhandsomely of their places of learning. 
This marks a very unpleasant state of mind. The Institu- 
tion in which thou art now placed had its origin in a concern 
for the guarded religious education of the youth of our So- 
ciety ; and a little reflection must teach thee, that in order 
to attain that end, a degree of method, order and restraint 



132 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1822. 



must be introduced, which is somewhat irksome to young 
minds. It is, [however,] ungrateful in such who know they 
are deriving essential benefits from the school, to speak ill or 
complain ; and particularly would it be unbecoming in thee, 
who wast sent there at thy own request. I speak this as a 
caution, not only now whilst at school, but when thou leaves 
it, that thou mayest be particularly guarded on this point. 

Another disagreeable practice with some children is find- 
ing fault with their teachers, or ridiculing them to their 
young companions. I know not that thou ever did so, but I 
warn thee affectionately against such a procedure. Mauy are 
the trials of teachers, arising from the great variety of dispo- 
sitions they have to deal with ; and much they have to give 
up to devote themselves to so arduous an engagement. I 
hope thou wilt be one that will endeavor rightly to feel for, 
and sympathize with all the teachers, to pay a respectful 
attention to all their admonitions, and by example, and per- 
suasion, when necessary, endeavor at all times to uphold their 
authority. This thou wilt find conduce much to thy peace 
and comfort. 

Lastly, some children are prone to find fault with their 
provision. This, I feel a comfortable hope, thou wilt not fall 
into. What do we deserve, compared with the bountiful 
supply for our wants which a beneficent Providence continu- 
ally affords us ? Rather let us endeavor to feel the senti- 
ment of the Psalmist, " What shall I render to the Lord for 
all his benefits ?" * * It is pleasant to us to hear from 
thee. Believe me, dear child, thou art not likely to find 
firmer friends anywhere than in thy father's house. Be not 
anxious to make a large acquaintance ; and if any thou hast 
made should seem to slight thee, be not much concerned about 
it. Keep near to thy parents, brothers and sister, in true 



1822.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



133 



affection. Separate from us as thou art, I dare say, thou 
thinks such an admonition superfluous, and that thou art in 
no danger of forgetting to love us. See, then, that thy con- 
duct speaks the same language. Let thy love to thy parents 
induce thee to do nothing in their absence thou fears would 
be unpleasant to them, and when restored to the domestic 
circle, if Providence should permit us to be again united, may 
thy love t<3 thy brothers and sister lead to increasing patience 
in bearing their little foibles, increasing self-denial when your 
inclinations are in opposition, and an increasing concern as 
our eldest hope, to set the younger a good example in all 
things. Thus will our desires — may I not say our prayers — 
concerning thee be answered, and thou prove a solace to our 
declining years. May it never be otherwise, for nothing is 
so bitter to a parent's feelings as a disobedient or ungrate- 
ful child ; nothing so likely to bring down his grey hairs 
with sorrow to the grave. 

Sixth month 16th. There is one hint, both as regards thy 
studies and the reading thou mayest undertake in the inter- 
vals of thy studies. Read nothing, study nothing, without 
understanding it. If thou hast not clear and precise ideas, 
ask the teachers at a suitable time ; and if done in a proper 
manner, I have no doubt they will be glad to give thee all 
necessary information. A certain English writer says, " If 
it is worth while to do anything at all, it is worth while to do 
it well." Attend to this both in important and small mat- 
ters ; whether it be waiting on table, hemming a handker- 
chief, writing a letter, or getting thy lessons, — do thy best. 
Establish habits of order, neatness and industry, now in thy 
youth. If thou dost, these habits will prove of great conse- 
quence in advanced life. 

Why do I give thee so much advice? Because I love 



134 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1822. 



thee. Because I earnestly desire thou mayest grow up 
worthy to be loved. My spirit at times is bowed in secret 
prayer to my God, that He may bless thee, that He may in- 
cline thy heart to fear and love Him, and to keep his com- 
mandments always. Then will thy peace flow as a river ; 
no uneasiness will be indulged at any present situation, but 
in all states thou wilt be content, daily blessing the Lord for 
all his benefits, and rejoicing fn the God of thy salvation. 

The following portion of a letter to T. Kite was written 
by a young female minister, who had been on a religious 
visit to Philadelphia. One phrase in it marks the district in 
which she was educated. 

"Eighth month 26th, 1822. We were favored to reach 
our homes in safety and peace, which, indeed, is cause of 
thankfulness. Since which my lot has been much circum- 
scribed, the door closed as to public communications, and 
my dwelling-place within the compass of quiet and rest. 
How evident in every line of life is the goodness, great lov- 
ing kindness, and tender mercy of Him, who is sometimes 
pleased to call into action, and operate upon the instruments 
in his own way ; and when they have humbly attended to 
his directions, to release them, with a portion of the oil of 
comfort, causing the light of his countenance to attend them 
on their way, and return with them to their accustomed de- 
partments. 

Things are in a low and trying state among us, as a So- 
ciety ; but neither to those within or without its pale who are 
rightly engaged, had this ought to administer discourage- 
ment. Those of this description [humble seekers], it is my 
belief, however situated, have very much to dwell alone ; 
their secret exercises known but to themselves. But their 
sighs and silent intercessions are noticed by Him, who re- 
gardeth his heritage, and watcheth over his little ones." 



1822.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 135 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER SUSANNA. 

Mnth month 30th, 1822. 
Thy last letter, my dear Susan, was peculiarly acceptable, 
because it marked a contented mind. Cherish and cultivate 
this disposition, which will, I am assured, conduce to thy 

comfort, as well as the comfort of thy parents and friends. 

* * * 

Tenth month 12th. From thy uncle Isaac Sharpless, ac- 
counts are not more favorable. He appears to be gradually 
declining ; and it is probable ere many months have elapsed 
he will be numbered with the dead. An affecting circum- 
stance to us all, particularly to his dear wife and children; 
the latter being now of an age sufficient in some degree to 
understand their loss. Thou hast heard, I expect, of the in- 
jury thy aunt Mary Sharpless received in her eye. It is 
doubtful whether she will have the use of it. With her 
affliction, her husband's situation, and of that of thy grand- 
father and grandmother, there has been a time of great trial 
amongst them ; and thy aunt Phebe has been under the ne- 
cessity of making great exertions. * ' * * I need hardly 
repeat my desires for thy diligent improvement of the oppor- 
tunities afforded thee for acquiring learning. Be not afraid 
of labor ; do not give way to indolent feelings, but arouse 
thyself to exertion, supported by the sweet consciousness of 
the approbation and esteem of thy parents ; and above all, 
looking for a blessing upon every good endeavor from thy 
Heavenly Parent, in whose favor the Scriptures say " is life, 
and at his right hand rivers of pleasure forevermore." 

Isaac Sharpless deceased Eleventh month 13th, 1822, and 
after attending the funeral, Thomas Kite and wife paid a 
visit to their daughter at Westtown. 



136 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1822. 



T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER SUSANNA. 

Twelfth month 7th, 1822. 
My Dear Susanna : — I wish thy literary improvement, 
and in propriety and decorum of manners ; but far above all, I 
wish thy heart improved. This can only be produced by thy 
submission to the cross of thy Saviour. Now in the spring 
time of life, may est thou take up that cross, that so should 
thy days be lengthened to maturity, it may prove thy crown 
of rejoicing. 

About this period Thomas Kite received from his stage- 
coach acquaintance, Lydia Huntly, a copy of her poem on 
the " Aborigines of America," with the following letter : 

November 18th, 1822. 
Friend Thomas Kite : — You may possibly recollect hav- 
ing presented several years since a copy of " Barclay's 
Apology for the Quakers," to a young female, of Connecticut. 
The gift was not lightly valued, nor the giver forgotten ; and 
as a testimony of such remembrance, she begs leave to pre- 
sent you with a Poem, in whose second Canto allusion is 
made to that peaceful sect, who, whatever may be the pre- 
tensions of other denominations, certainly adhere the most 
perfectly to the unresisting system of that Redeemer, who at 
his death bequeathed to his disciples that spirit of peace, 
which turned to joy the harps of angels, when the star of his 
birth first gleamed over the mountains of Bethlehem. 



1819.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



137 



CHAPTER VII.— 1819-1824. 

SEPARATION IN THE SOCIETY OF FRIENDS — LETTERS TO 
MEMBERS OF HIS FAMILY. 

It will now be necessary to allude to the defection from the 
original doctrines and principles of the religious Society of 
Friends, which finally resulted in the separation of 1827. 
Thomas Kite thus wrote on the subject : 

"About the year 1819, the trial of Friends in this coun- 
try commenced, from the dissemination of the unsound senti- 
ments of Flias Hicks and his adherents. In the sufferings 
and afflictions of my brethren from this cause I had a large 
share. Believing it required of me by my Divine Master 
openly to oppose the spirit of unbelief, and earnestly contend 
for the faith once delivered to the saints, my conduct herein 
drew upon me much censure and reproach. For a time it 
seemed as if I must have sunk under these trials ; but the 
tender sympathy of my dear companion, and other precious 
Christian friends, proved a stay to my mind, and I was en- 
abled to persevere until the separation, which took place in 
1827, opened a way in some degree for my relief." 

Although the defection commenced or became apparent, 
as the above quotation specifies, about the year 1819, but 
little disturbance was created in Philadelphia Yearly Meet- 
ing until towards the close of 1822. Thomas Kite frequently 
said, that the first intimation he received of the unsoundness 
of Elias Hicks was from the late John Cox, of Burlington, 
who told him sometime before the breaking out of the con- 
troversy that " Elias Hicks held Unitarian principles." 
Being warmly zealous for the doctrinal purity of the Society 
he loved, he demanded, why then he was not disowned? 
10 



138 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1823. 



John replied, " That the attempt to disown him would cause 
a separation in the Society of Friends." 

In the year 1822, it began to be well known that a doc- 
trinal difference existed in the Society of Friends ; and it 
was as well understood that the heads of that profession in 
Philadelphia were opposed to the Unitarian views of Eli as 
Hicks. 

We shall now return to Thomas Kite — giviug no further 
particulars of the disturbances amongst Friends, except as 
they may incidentally arise, connected with his biography. 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER S. 

Second month 15th, 1823. It is very cold. The Dela- 
ware closed yesterday ; to-day the boys are skating, and by 
to-morrow we expect it will bear horses, &c. 

Some sound and valuable Friends were uneasy at the open 
opposition manifested by the faithful in Philadelphia to the 
doctrines of Elias Hicks, and Thomas Kite received several 
letters from those he loved, containing sentiments like the 
following, which is extracted from one of them : — " I wish, if 
it is proper to wish, that I could reach every heart with the 
sound of alarm, and effectually proclaim the exhortation ' Be 
still.' I believe if strong measures are resorted to, by the 
active members of either division, the wheat will be torn up 
with the tares, and confusion, — perhaps utter confusion,— 
will be introduced into the affairs of Society." 

In reply to the w 7 riter of this, Thomas Kite said, he thought 
the account received by his friend of the state of fermentation 
in Philadelphia, and the disposition to disown one another? 
was exaggerated. He declared his belief, that the testi- 
monies of the religious Society of Friends would never be 



1823.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



139 



permitted to fall, and concluded with urging the vital im- 
portance of knowing, each one for himself, a preparation 
through faithfulness here, for the after scene. 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER SUSANNA. 

Philadelphia, Third month 14th, 1823. 
My omission of writing to thee has not proceeded from 
any diminution of tender interest in thy welfare. On the 
contrary, the older thou grow r est, the deeper is the solicitude 
I feel, as regards thy whole conduct and behavior. I wish 
even thy amusemeuts may not be too childish. Remember, 
this is the season of improvement, and that part of youth 
which is merely spent in sport, is lost or worse than lost. 
* * * Dear daughter, be serious. Again I repeat it, be 
not too full of childish sports. Remember thy Creator in 
the days of thy youth. Take up the cross to the wild pro- 
pensities of nature, and great will be thy own peace, and 
great the comfort of thy parents, w 7 ho can have no greater 
joy than to behold their children walking in the truth. 

On the 30th of Fifth month, after returning from a journey 
of business to New York, T. K. wrote to his daughter S. at 
West-town : — * * >:< u It gives us satisfaction to administer 
to thy comfort ; let us in return have the satisfaction of be- 
holding with thy increasing years, an increase in dignity and 
propriety of behavior. The true foundation of good conduct is 
the fear and reverence of our Creator. Remember Him, then 
in thy youth, — ask of Him to purify thy heart, that thou may est 
be enabled to love and serve Him, and feel the rich enjoyment 
of a peaceful mind — a sense of Divine favor and acceptance. 
Could all the gratifications the most unbounded imagination 
could conceive of, or desire, be bestowed in full perfection, 



140 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1823. 



the possessor would be poor, compared with one in the blessed 
inheritance of a conscience void of offence, the peace which 
the world neither gives nor takes away. Dear child, dare 
not, in the smallest instance, do anything thou knowest to be 
wrong. Giving way to temptation in a little thing, opens the 
way for greater departures ; and some instances have been 
known wherein children once amiable and lovely, have 
brought down by their conduct, the grey hairs of parents 
with sorrow^ to the grave. I write not thus to cause thee 
unnecessary uneasiness, but to relieve a mind full of parental 
anxiety and tenderness, which greatly desires thy present 
and eternal welfare." 

Eighth month 18th. To the same : — " Thy letter of last 
Third-day was agreeable to us. Every circumstance and 
incident which occurs to thee, interests me, because I feel so 
deeply for thy welfare, and so ardently desire thy happiness. 
I know that evil-doing and misery are connected, as also 
well-doing and comfort. When we have done wrong, whether 
in greater or lesser matters, if we are sensible of our error, 
and seek to our Heavenly Father for forgiveness, He will 
pardon our transgressions. I w 7 ant thee, dear, often to read 
in the Bible. There thou wilt find that all have sinned, that 
all need repentance, that our blessed Saviour came into the 
world to save sinners, to call them to repentance, to suffer 
for them, to die for them ! What gratitude ought to fill our 
hearts towards our Divine Redeemer ; how ought we to open 
our minds to receive Him spiritually ! for He does appear in 
those who are made willing to forsake every evil way. He 
appears as a cleanser and purifier of the children of men, 
gradually washing away all impurity of thought, all envy, 
malice, unkindness, enabling us to live in love one w 7 ith 
another, and to love our gracious God with all our heart, and 



1823.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



141 



soul, and strength. My breathing to my Heavenly Bene- 
factor for my clear child is, that she may experience this, and 
may become one of the adopted children of the heavenly 
family, even while she lives on earth. How would it console 
me, and enlarge my happiness ! I speak not these things as 
finding fault with thee. sSo, my dear, thou hast for the 
most part, been to me a dutiful, and I believe, always an 
affectionate child ; but from the sense I have that it is neces- 
sary all should experience what the Scriptures term regenera- 
tion, without which we cannot enter the everlasting kingdom 
of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ." 

Eleventh month 4th. To the same : — "Thy grandmother 
and aunt Mary continue their attention to the poor and dis- 
tressed. In addition to considerable attention to the orphan 
asylum in South wark, the former is banded with a little 
company who are seeking the welfare of female prisoners, 
not only by visiting and conversing with them on week days, 
and supplying the most destitute with clothing, but also col- 
lecting them every First-day and reading to them from the 
Scriptures, and ofcher religious writings. On such occasions 
Friends sometimes speak to them in the love of the Gospel, 
desiring that they may be converted from the evil of their 
ways. I have been present a number of times on these 
occasions, and have had to admire the goodness of the Lord, 
who is waiting to be gracious even to such wretched outcasts. 
But oh ! my child, what misery do those escape who are so 
wise as to choose Him for their portion in early life, and 
dedicate their lives to his service. May this be thy happy 
experience, and whether thy future life be marked by pros- 
perous or adverse circumstances, it will be comparatively of 
little importance. Time is short, the human soul is immor- 
tal, and so to live as to secure a blessed immortality, is the 



142 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1823. 



one thing needful. Try then every day to increase in hu- 
mility, love and the fear of the Lord, which keeps the heart 
clean, and to be found every day in the exercise of such 
tempers and dispositions as thou wouldst wish to be found in 
at the hour of death. This habitual preparation for the 
solemn hour of departure, though it would check all giddi- 
ness and levity, would not interfere with the cheerfulness 
natural to youth. Surely they have the best right to be 
cheerful whose minds are kept in innocency, and who have 
the Lord for their friend." 

Twelfth month 12th. To the same:—* * * " Thy 
grandmother continues improving, and thy aunt Mary is 
about again. We had last evening information from thy 
uncle in Susquehanna County by one of their neighbors. 
* * * He brought a letter from thy uncle John written 
'very cheerfully. He keeps school this winter and is paid so 
many bushels of corn a quarter. To fill up time profitably 
he makes shoes of an evening, his wife sitting by at her work, 
and thy uncle Nathan reading aloud. It would gratify me 
to pop in on them some evening, and see how they look ; but 
the distance renders an excursion there a serious affair. Hast 
thou heard that it is expected Cousin Edith Sharpless* is ere 
long to be married ? The Friend to whom she is to be united 
is spoken very favorably of. His name is George Martin. 

I have been this afternoon to attend the funeral of Jane 
Silliman, sister of Harriet, who lives with Jane Canby. She 
heard about three weeks ago of the death of her father, which 
took place at a distance. She appeared much affected, soon 
took to her bed, gradually weakened, and died yesterday 
morning, lamenting that she had not in early life chosen a 

*A daughter of Nathan Sharpless. George Martin deceased 
Seventh month 26th, 1847, having been an elder several years. 



1824.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



143 



religious course. At such a solemn hour, of what unspeaka- 
ble importance must it be to feel the assurance, that having 
embraced the Saviour's love as our inheritance, and followed 
Him in the way of self-denial, his supporting power is felt to 
be underneath in the last struggle of expiring nature. Em- 
brace religion, my dear child. Though it makes us serious 
it does not make us gloomy. On the contrary, it leads to 
cheerfulness, gilding the sorrows of the present scene, and 
opening bright prospects of a future world of blessedness. 
How incomparably more desirable is such a life, than one 
passed in the bondage of sin ? For however splendid the trans- 
gressor's course may be, sin and misery are indissolubly con- 
nected even in this world, and the prospect of what awaits 
the impenitent when death has dissolved the connection with 
this world, is awful to think of. Mayest thou and I, and my 
whole family, so lean upon the Saviour of men, and receive 
■ Him as our Redeemer and Sanctifier, that we may be ac- 
counted worthy to obtain that blessed inheritance which is 
prepared for the Lord's children, being carried by angels 
into Abraham's bosom, enabled to rejoice, 

i No wanderer lost, 
A family in heaven !' " 

T. K. TO JOSHUA SHARPLESS. 

Philadelphia, Third month 6th, 1824. 

Dear Father: — * * * Wm. Poster has lately been 
in the city holding public meetings with Friends and others. 
He has since gone to Bucks Quarterly Meeting, and is now, 
I expect, attending meetings ■ within its limits. His present 
prospect, I believe, is not to be at our Yearly Meeting, but 
to go eastward. 

Our friend Hannah Elliott continues in a low declining 



144 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1824. 



state, and probably we shall have her with us but a short 
time. As we have good hope concerning her, there is no 
cause of mourning except for some she leaves, who are 
closely united to her in the bonds of religious friendship, and 
for the Society, in which her example of simplicity and dedi- 
cation will be missed. On considering how we are stripped 
of devoted servants and handmaidens, the wish seems invol- 
untarily to arise, that more of our youth would submit to 
the preparing Power, that, by separating them from a worldly 
spirit, and uniting them to Christ, our Holy Head would 
qualify them to take the places of those who have entered 
and are about to enter their everlasting rest. 

Dear father, may the gracious Shepherd himself be near 
thee in all thy trials, sustain thy drooping mind ; renew thy 
ability to wait with patience all the appointed time until thy 
change come, that at the last thou niayest feel the grateful 
arisings of praise unto Him who has been with thee all thy 9 
life long, and who having loved his own, loveth them unto 
the end. 

And for dear mother, I feel most affectionate desires, 
that her Master, whom she has desired to serve in integrity 
of heart, may spread over her the shadow of his wings, sup- 
port her under trials, and centre her in a qualification to 
say " Thy will be done," Then will she see that every dis- 
pensation from the Lord's hand is in mercy, and designed to 
do us good, to prepare, it may be, through many tribulations 
from within and from without, for an entrance into that 
blessed state, " where the wicked cease from troubling and 
the weary are at rest." 

The time that brother waits is short, or in the love I feel, 
I could embrace you all ; dear sister Phebe in particular, who 
is often affectionately remembered, and, who, being one of 



1824.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



145 



those on whom the burden and heat of the day is devolving, 
I doubt not often feels clothed with a sense of insufficiency. 
Well, this emptying prepares for being filled. May she re- 
member the promise, " As thy day is, so shall thy strength 
be." Again, " Thy eye shall see Jerusalem, a quiet habita- 
tion, a tabernacle that shall not be taken down ; not one of 
the stakes thereof shall ever be removed, nor one of her 
cords broken." 

Fourth month 22nd. To his daughter S. : — " We have had 
thy uncle Cheyney, aunt Martha and Ann Rogan as lodgers 
this Yearly Meeting, though a number of our friends have 
called to see us. Amongst the strangers attending are Anna 
Braithwaite and Isaac Stevenson from England. The latter, 
we understand, proposes taking tea with us to-morrow even- 
ing." 

30th. To the same : — " Shouldst thou return in my absence 
I have one request to make, which is, that thou wilt not visit 
much until I see thee ; perhaps not beyond thy grandfather's 
and uncle Joseph [Walton's], unless some peculiar circum- 
stances seem to require it. I wish some conversation with 
thee on the subject of visiting generally, as well as other 
subjects relative to thy comfort and future prospects." 

Susanna returned from Westtown, Fifth month 12th, 1824, 
and for sometime devoted herself to domestic duties. 

STEPHEN PIKE TO T. K. 

Burlington, Fourth month 30th, 1824. 
Esteemed Friend: — I received thy acceptable communi- 
cation of the 27th. It may be said to have come in anticipa- 
tion of my wish, for, having missed of the advantage I have 
annually enjoyed, of attending our Yearly Meeting, and 



146 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1824. 



feeling, in my measure, as a member, with the body of our 
heretofore much favored church, I had thought of request- 
ing that thou wouldst endeavor to convey to me some views 
of the circumstances of its deliberations ; and this thou 
hast done. I was not without some apprehensions that the 
dignity and solemnity of the meeting might be materially 
affected by some of the restless spirits who appear to have 
conspired from one motive or other, to destroy in part at 
least, if not entirely, the hedge which I have never doubted 
was planted around our vineyard, through favor, by no human 
hand. In looking towards the meeting, at various times, I 
felt a degree of confidence that, notwithstanding the unfruit- 
fulness of many portions of the enclosure, and the wild nature 
of the fruit of some others, the time had not arrived, nor was 
even near, when the sentence, " I will take away the hedge 
thereof," should be put in execution. 

The firmness and steady perseverance of the " aged ser- 
vants," as well as the secret fervent desires that the good 
cause should be maintained, which are cherished by great 
numbers in less conspicuous situations, have obtained for 
us a suspension of that fearful sentence. Much I wish that 
the gratitude to which thou hast alluded, may be experienced 
to work its proper effect on our individual conversation and 
actings, and thereby secure to ourselves a continuance of 
preservation from the quarter whence alone it can be derived. 

I had heard before incidentally of the firm and effectual 
stand which our highly valued friend John Cox was enabled 
to make, with others, against the encroachments of a dis- 
organizing spirit ; and have felt towards them an additional 
kindness on that account, though sensible that the praise is 
due elsewhere. 



182 J.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



147 



The following letter was written to a young female who 
had lost a brother. 

T. K. TO M. b. u. 

Philadelphia, Seventh month 12th, 1824. 

Dear Mary : — I returned home from New York on Fifth - 
day, having the interesting company of Wm. Jackson and 
his wife. It has long been to me a source of peculiar satis- 
faction to associate with such veterans in the Great Master's 
cause, whose sweetness of spirit in old age indicates them 
" like as a shock of corn cometh in in his season/' to be 
nearly ripe for gathering unto the Heavenly Garner. Such 
an intercourse prompts the rising wish, that we of the younger 
ranks may be induced to follow them as they have followed 
Christ. [If such be our experience] then, whatever clouds 
may occasionally rest upon our views whilst treading the 
chequered paths of life, they will all, through Divine mercy, 
be dispelled, and " in the evening time there shall be light ;" 
and peace, hope and confidence in God, will go with us to 
the last confines of mortality. 

Thou hast frequently been in my affectionate remembrance 
since the pleasant visit I paid thee in thy rural retirement. 
[That retirement] I would fain cherish the secret hope, may, 
under the Divine blessing, prove to thee a season of peculiar 
profit. I have desired that as thou communest with thy own 
heart, former days may be instructively called to remem- 
brance, the petitions and vows offered in the hour of afflic- 
tion, and the support then graciously vouchsafed. Though 
there may not have been an entire devotion in following on 
to know the Lord, yet I trust, desires after spiritual good are 
not extinguished, and I believe the Lord ever merciful, waits 
to be gracious ; but then it must be oh his own terms. If we 



148 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1824. 



would be reconciled to God through the mediation of his 
dear Son, our Lord and Saviour, we must take up the cross. 
Thus it was the exercised mind of that brother, to whom thou 
wast so tenderly attached, found rest. How clearly was the 
doctrine of the cross opened to him in that flood of light which 
was shed upon his departing spirit. Eemember, dear Mary, 
with reference to this lamented brother, the sentiment of a 
pious writer : — 

u He mourns the dead who lives as they desire." 

May it be the future steady engagement of thy soul to 
follow in that path which leads to blessedness, bearing the 
cross and despising the shame. Then, when thy day of pro- 
bation shall be over, thou mayest rejoin him in that state of 
being where " adieus and farewells are a sound unknown," 
and surviving friends may say, " Lovely in life, and in death 
not divided." * 

The following letter is supposed to have been written about 
this time. A rough copy, or the original, was found among 
Thomas Kite's papers, endorsed by him, " Sketch of letter 
on H. G. F.'s decease." 

T. K. TO PHEBE . 

Dear Friexd :— It so fell out that I did not hear of your 
late affecting bereavement until some time after its occurrence. 
When communicated, it naturally introduced my mind into 
feeling with you, especially as I had so recently been on 
several occasions with the dear deceased, for whom I enter- 
tained a true respect, and with whom I was united in Gospel 
fellowship. The retrospect of the time spent in her society 
when lately in New York, is tenderly interesting, because I 



1824.] MEMOIK OF THOMAS KITE. 149 



then beheld her fast ripening for eternity. I [cannot] now 
entertain the shadow of a doubt, that as a shock of corn 
cometh in in his season, so she is gathered by the Great 
Husbandman into his heavenly garner. I trust the same 
conviction has had a tendency to alleviate your sufferings, 
to centre your minds in an endeavor after entire resignation, 
and even to console under the loss of her sweet society, in the 
prospect that to her, to " die was gain." Having loved and 
served her Saviour — followed him in the regeneration — 
washed her robes and made them white in the blood of the 
Lamb, she is now associated with those purified spirits who 
enjoy a happy immortality. What then remains, but that 
you her children, may let her, though dead, speak, " Follow 
me as I have followed Christ." In renouncing the fascina- 
tion of a world which lieth in wickedness, and following the 
footsteps of the flock of the companions of Christ, you will 
enjoy a serenity of mind, of which no words can convey an 
adequate idea. The Holy One of Israel will be your " Sun 
and your shield," affording light and protection to guide and 
to guard you, not only through the slippery paths of youth, 
but throughout your earthly pilgrimage, until you also arrive 
at a peaceful settlement in that city, whose walls are salva- 
tion, and her gates praise. 

Though these lines are more particularly addressed to thee, 
dear Phebe, I have not been able, as thou wilt perceive, 
to separate between Maria and thyself. The same love and 
hearty well-wishing attends you both, and also thy married 
sisters, less known to me. To thy dear father, please men- 
tion my love and sympathy. He knows, under so deep a 
bereavement, the cisterns of human consolation can hold no 
water, and that the fountain of everlasting mercy, can alone 
afford an availing supply. The God of all consolation can 



150 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1824. 



alone heal the broken in heart, and bind up all their wounds. 
May it be his experience to realize the fulfilment of the 
promise, " Call upon me in the day of trouble, I will deliver 
thee, and thou shalt glorify me." 



CHAPTER VIIL-1825-1828. 

LETTER FROM A YOUNG FRIEND —THOMAS KITE'S REPLY 
— JOSHUA SHARPLESS' DEATH— MEMORANDA. 

Thomas Kjte was often dipped into sympathy with the 
young, and through the unfolding of the Holy Spirit, was 
made acquainted with their departure in heart from the 
principle of Light and Life, which would have preserved 
them from sin. Having been brought, as he believed, into 
a sense of the lapsed state of one of the children of a man he 
dearly loved, he unfolded to the young man plainly and 
affectionately his concern on his account. He soon afterwards 
received the following letter. 

Second month 2nd, 1825. 
So far am I from feeling offended at thy communicating 
thy exercise on my account to me in the manner thou hast, 
I can assure thee it was acceptable ; and I have desired that 
I might experience a qualification duly to appreciate the 
favor. But alas! I must candidly acknowledge that it is 
with me as thou hast feared. I am not what I once was. 
The truth of this I sometimes keenly and sensibly feel, when 
in seasons of serious reflection I am brought in a degree to 
feel my alienation from the Commonwealth of Israel. Yes ! 



1825.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 151 

I have wandered, widely wandered from that which tends to 
true peace of mind. I have rebelled and rebelled, till I have 
gone so far that I am led to think at times that I shall never 
be able to return. Yet there are seasons when the little good 
which is yet left in me predominates, and I feel anxious to be 
found a dedicated follower of the Lamb, and thereby become 
an honor to the Truth. But a dread of the cross, added to a 
strong natural inclination, has enabled the adversary of my 
soul to keep me in bondage, and introduce me into a state, 
which I may truly say I have at times felt to be worse than 
Egyptian darkness. I could say much, but it is far from 
being a pleasant subject for me to dw T ell upon. But I con- 
sidered my acknowledgments were due to thy kindness ; and 
sincerely hope that I may be qualified to receive anything 
further which thou mayest have to communicate in this way, 
in a degree of that spirit which has introduced thee into a 
tender solicitude for the welfare of thy sincere though un- 
worthy friend. 

T. K. IN REPLY. 

Second month 3rd, 1825. 
I have been affected in reading thy letter, which I received 
last evening, and can truly say, that as thou art in some de- 
gree enabled to see thy situation, my petitions on thy behalf 
are, that thy convictions of the exceeding sinfulness of sin, 
and of the awful danger of continuing in it, may be strength- 
ened and confirmed. There are two kinds of sorrow for sin. 
There is a sorrow for that loss of comfort and respectability, 
the first of which always, and the latter of which generally,, 
follows a sinful course. This kind of sorrow mends not the 
heart, being merely selfish. There is another sorrow which 
springs from conviction, impressed by the Divine Spirit, of 



152 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1825. 



having violated the law of a beneficent holy God. This sor- 
row is genuine, leading to an abhorrence of our whole life of 
iniquity, and to a willingness to suffer such a portion of an- 
guish of spirit as the Most Merciful shall see needful for our 
correction. " I will bear the indignation of the Lord," said 
one of old, " because I have sinned against Him." As such 
a disposition is cherished, the truly awakened and contrited 
sinner, though despairing, and justly so, of his own strength 
and his own resolutions, dare not despair of the mercies and 
forgiveness of God ; being led to look in faith to that blessed 
Redeemer, who is the Propitiation for our sins, the Mediator 
and Intercessor with the Father, and a High Priest touched 
with a feeling of all our infirmities. The Apostle Paul, in 
confidence of the mercy of God through Christ, thus addresses 
some of old : " My God shall supply all your need through 
Jesus Christ." Now 7 , wdiat do we ? What dost thou, need ? 
Is it that thy hard heart should be broken ? Behold the 
promise : " I will take away their stony hearts, and give 
them hearts of flesh ;" that is, hearts capable of feeling. Is 
it that the heart, being broken, has need of healing ? " He 
healeth ail the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds." 
Is it to he cleansed from former pollutions? " The blood of 
Christ cleanseth from all sin. " " A fountain is set open for 
the house of Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem, for sin 
and uncleanness." Is it strength to resist evil in time to 
come ? "I can do all things through Christ that strength- 
eneth me." Is it light upon thy path ? or is it protection 
thou need est ? " The Lord God is a sun and a shield." 

Let me invite thee, then, to the footstool of the cross ; let 
me entreat thee to take the Saviour's yoke upon thee ; to flee 
from sin as from a serpent. Never do anything thou know- 
est to be wrong ; endeavor to be inwardly w T atchful unto 



1825.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



153 



prayer, and I cannot but believe, if thou makes use of the 
little strength thou hast, thou mayest at length experience a 
restoration to a state in which the consciousness of the 
Heavenly Father's love and protection will be thy greatest 

Every truly enlightened mind must abhor the idea of al- 
lowing themselves to transgress, because God is merciful ; of 
continuing in sin that grace may abound. But when brought 
to a proper abhorrence of sin, — when we can say, " How can 
I do this great evil and sin against God ?" or, " If I have 
done iniquity, I will do so no more," then there is comfort 
to be gathered from the assurance, that the " Lord is merci- 
ful, and ready to forgive." In such a state, the experience 
of David is deeply instructive. Behold how great his fall ! 
The man who had enjoyed intimate communion with God — 
the sweet Psalmist of Israel, who had proclaimed to others 
the name of Him, who is glorious in holiness,' and fearful in 
praises — yet grossly fell. Behold, also, the depth of his 
penitence, his anguish of spirit, his self-abhorrence, his pray- 
ers for restoration : " Take not thy holy spirit from me !" 
" Create in me a clean heart, and renew a right spirit within 
me." Behold the mercy of that God against whom he had 
so grievously sinned. There is yet some encouragement to 
the poor penitent, sincerely desirous of returning from the 
evil of his ways. 

With regard to thy outward situation [he having spoken 
of retiring where he was not known], I would rather encour- 
age thee to remain where thou art, for the present. Beware 
of rash steps. Stay where thou art known, and where thou 
art beloved, and where there are those who will feel for thee, 
pity, comfort and advise thee. If thou wishes to see me, I 
will call on thee. If thou hast anything whatever to say, or 
11 



154 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1825. 



any advice to ask, I am willing, to the best of my ability, to 
hear and counsel thee ; remaining thy truly affectionate 
friend. 

There is one thing I particularly wish to press upon thee, 
when thou feelest a state of wretchedness and want, beware 
of turning again into folly for temporary relief. This would 
be to add bitterness to the bitter, to bar up thy own way, to 
heap up wrath against the day of wrath. Rather under such 
feelings endeavor meekly and patiently to bear what thou 
art conscious of deserving, remembering, it is better that our 
sins go beforehand to judgment, than that they should follow 
after. 

The young man settled down into a useful citizen, and be- 
came a religiously concerned member of the Society of Friends. 
He continued to reside in Philadelphia, and within his do- 
mestic circle numbered a happy, virtuous wife, and an inter- 
esting family of children. 

Near the close of the Tenth month, this year, Thomas 
Kite's three eldest children spent a short time at Burlington 
with their father's friend, Stephen Pike. On their return, 
they were made the bearers of the following letter : 

Burlington, Tenth month 30th, 1825. 
Esteemed Friend : — The company of thy children has 
been acceptable to us all ; to myself particularly so. This 
earth has nothing so interesting as the loveliness of innocence 
accompanied w T ith sprightly intelligence and benevolent affec- 
tions ; and I think these inestimable qualities are possessed 
by my young visitors in no small degree. Much I wish for 
them, that the contact with a corrupt w r orld, which they must 
necessarily experience, as they advance in life, may not con- 
taminate them, and that they may advance in the improve- 



1826.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



155 



ment of the faculties with which they are gifted, and also of 
those exterior graces which render their possessor agreeable 
to others, and, consequently, better qualified for . usefulness. 
In haste, thy sincere friend, Stephen Pike. 

During the years 1824, 1825 and 1826, T. Kite continued 
laboring as ability was afforded against the inroads of un- 
sound doctrines into the religious Society of Friends. From 
time to time, at the pointings of duty, he attended neighbor- 
ing Quarterly and Monthly Meetings, but paid no extensive 
religious visit during those years of commotion. For his 
faithfulness to what he esteemed fundamental truths, he was 
much disliked by the followers and admirers of Elias Hicks, 
who manifested their displeasure with him in various w r ays. 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER SUSANNA. 

Philadelphia, Eighth month 19th, 1826. 
I find, my dear child, whenever I take up my pen to ad- 
dress thee, that desires for thy welfare in the best sense pre- 
dominate. This is, no doubt, because I love thee, and love 
ever wishes the best things for the beloved object. If it 
were possible for me, with a wish, to obtain for thee riches 
and honor, and all worldly advantages, I would not let the 
wish escape, because far from proving to thy advantage, they 
would be a snare. But in desiring for thee heavenly treasure, 
durable riches and righteousness, I cannot limit my desires. 
Cultivate then, every day, and every hour of the day, the 
favor of that Great Being, who can dispose of these precious 
gifts ; and however slender thy portion of what the w T orld 
chiefly values, thou wilt become an heir of glory. To see 
thee really adorned with humility, meekness, and the fear of 
the Lord, will afford me the most lively satisfaction ; whilst 



156 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1827. 



few or any circumstances could cause me such heart-rending 
grief as to see my children turn aside into the paths of folly. 
Be circumspect, then, lest the dissipating effects of visiting 
about should indispose thy mind for serious reflection. Let 
no morning or evening pass over without an endeavor to 
draw near to thy Creator in spirit, to implore his protection, 
to bless Him for favors past, and supplicate for more. The 
actions of time are weighed in the balance of eternity, and 
such as we sow such shall we reap. Oh ! that, sowing to the 
Spirit, thou mayest of the Spirit reap life everlasting. 

Joshua Sharpless, father-in-law of Thomas Kite, deceased 
the 21st of the Ninth month, 1826. The funeral took place 
on the following Seventh-day, the 23d, at 10 o'clock. Thomas 
Kite remained for a short time with the bereaved family at 
Bradford, and his Christian labors in consolation and counsel 
on that occasion, were long had in remembrance by some of 
the grand-children collected. 

The Hicksites having agreed amongst themselves to estab- 
lish Monthly and Quarterly Meetings in unity with their 
separate Yearly Meeting, it became the duty of the Quarterly 
Meetings of the Society to appoint committees to strengthen 
their subordinate meetings, especially such as contained within 
them many unsound members. Philadelphia Quarterly 
Meeting, in the year 1827, appointed a few T men and women 
Friends to extend aid to Radnor Monthly Meeting. The 
clerk of that meeting united with Friends, but the larger 
portion of the members were separatists, and they determined 
to throw off their allegiance to Philadelphia Quarterly 
Meeting, and attach themselves to a body favoring their 
views. Thomas Kite w T as one of the committee, and shared 



1827.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



157 



with other of its members, the trouble incident to the duties 
of such an appointment. 

This year Susanna Kite commenced keeping school in 
Philadelphia, and her brother William, then but seventeen 
years of age, undertook a similar occupation at Med ford, 
New Jersey, for the winter of 1827-8. His father felt much 
concern and anxiety at this early engagement of his son in 
so important a matter, and his letters testify his care. 

T. K. TO HIS SON WILLIAM. 

Philadelphia, Eleventh month 21st, 1827. 

Dear Son : — * * * I feel anxious to hear how thou 
feels in the new and important station in which thou art 
placed, and for thy good conduct, wherein I feel myself in 
some degree responsible, not only because of my relationship, 
but because of my recommendation of thee to the Friends 
who have employed thee. 

I trust thy endeavors will not be wanting to give satisfac- 
tion, not only by diligent attention to thy school, but also by 
a prudent and exemplary course of conduct. I think thou 
hadst better not resort to corporal punishment. Pass over 
slight offences, as if not obsei ved ; in more serious cases, if 
admonition fails to reclaim, complain to the trustees. But 
whilst mild and gentle towards all thy scholars, be not too 
familiar with them, and have no favorites. 

With respect to thy demeanor out of school, either in the 
family thou boards with, or where thou mayest visit, be 
modest and unassuming, patient and willing to be pleased. 
I have confidence in thy religious principles, yet I wish thee 
not too freely to assert them, nor be too liberal of thy re- 
marks, particularly when with the young, on the present 
unhappy state of our religious Society. May the blessing 



158 



MEM (HE OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1827. 



rest upon thee which was "on the head of Joseph, and on 
the crown of the head of him who was separate from his 
brethren." * * * A dear aged friend of mine, Elizabeth 
Collins, lives near thee. I wish thee, some First-day after- 
noon, to call on her, make thyself known to her, and remem- 
ber me affectionately to her. 

Twelfth month 22nd. To the same : — " I have received 
some information of thy getting along, which has been satis- 
factory, I mention this not to elate thee, because I know 
that every degree of preservation from evil is a mercy which 
calls for humble gratitude to the Lord our Helper, but I men- 
tion it to excite thee to continued watchfulness that thou 
niayest be strengthened in stabiliiy of conduct, which will 
prove consoling to thy best friends and be of lasting benefit 
to thyself. Thou art aware that some interesting young per- 
sons, whose early lives gave promise of much future useful- 
ness have been overcome by temptation, in an unguarded 
hour, and have brought a stain on their characters and grief 
upon their friends. [In order] that thou niayest avoid the 
rocks on which these have been wrecked, look to the Hea- 
venly Pilot, dwell in the fear of the Lord all the day long, 
earnestly seek to feel his presence contriting thy heart in 
religious meetings, and in more private seasons of retirement. 
This course of life, far from rendering life gloomy, as some 
have falsely imagined, will prove a fruitful source of com- 
fort. Outward blessings will be enjoyed with a double 
relish, when received as gifts from Heaven ; and innocent 
cheerfulness is not incompatable with the most ardent devo- 
tion. Moreover it is the uniform testimony of the Lord's 
servants, that no earthly joy is to be compared with that 
which is ' unspeakable and full of glory,' even in the present 



1828.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



159 



life ; and then they have the blessed assurance that death 
itself cannot destroy their pleasures. They know that ' if the 
earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, they have a 
building of God, a house not made with hands, eternal in 
the heavens.' " 

Among Thomas Kite's papers was found the following : 
" God created man for enjoyment, and therefore implanted 
in him an instinctive desire for happiness. As first created, 
his thirst for happiness was gratified by partaking of the 
fountain of supreme bliss, by communion with his Creator. 
By his disobedience and fall from the state in which he was 
created, both he, and his posterity, partaking of his nature, 
have sought to have their desires for happiness gratified by 
partaking of fleshly delights. These can never satisfy, be- 
cause the mind is immortal, and nothing short of an immor- 
tal good can fill the soul. The work of regeneration com- 
mences by making man sensible of what he has lost, and 
raising desires for its restoration. Hence he craves purity, 
that he may again assimilate with God and enjoy Him. 
By submitting to the power of the Spirit, the instinctive im- 
pulse after happiness becomes purified. That which in a 
fallen state is carnal desire becomes heavenly and spiritual ; 
it is hunger and thirst after righteousness." 

Soon after the Yearly Meeting in the Fourth month, 1828, 
Rebecca, daughter of Thomas Kite, went to Westtown 
Boarding School, and in the Fifth month his father and 
mother broke up housekeeping and became inmates of his 
family. As his book store did not realize sufficient profit to 
support his family, he now added a printing office and a bindery 
to his means of maintenance. The printing office proved a 
profitable investment, and he retained an interest in it for a 
number of years. 



160 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1828. 



CHAPTER IX.— 1828-1834. 

ELIZABETH ROBINSONS LAST MEETING VISIT TO VIRGINIA 

YEARLY MEETING DOCTOR GODMAN's DEATH — YEARLY 

MEETING'S COMMITTEE — LETTERS. 

THOMAS KITE TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

Philadelphia, Sixth month 7th, 1828. 
* * * Thou makes some allusion to the state of thy 
mind ; dear child, I wish thee to be serious and weighty in 
thy attention to the concerns of the immortal part. It is no 
new thing for those who sincerely desire to serve and love the 
Lord to be tried with wanderings of mind, and the intrusion 
of unprofitable thoughts, even when sitting in religious meet- 
ings. But look steadily to the Lord, and cry unto Him, and 
in his own time He will send deliverance. Remember, to 
bear the cross is the way to win the crown. It is worth while 
to suffer many trials here, if they may but be sanctified to us, 
and work out for us, when the trials of time are over, an 
exceeding and eternal weight of glory. 

Sixth month 28th. To the same :—* * * " My be- 
loved child, I have no doubt the gracious Hand of mercy has 
been extended unto thee, and this it is that troubles thee for 
wrong conduct and for w T rong thoughts. Be not discouraged, 
the Lord is merciful ! Wait in the simplicity of a little 
child upon Him, and ask of Him to change thy heart and 
make it better. His power alone can do it ; and He is as 
willing now as ever He was to cleanse and purify. Though 
thou may experience thy inward troubles, yet if thou follows 
on to know the Lord, He will in his own time, ' give thee 



1828.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



161 



beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, and the garment 
of praise for the spirit of heaviness.' " 

During the early part of summer, this year, Susanna Kite's 
health became somewhat impaired, and her father concluded 
that a short relaxation from school duties was necessary; and 
feeling a freedom to visit his friend Henry Hull at Stanford, 
Dutchess County, New York, he took his wife and daughter 
there. They left Philadelphia the 2nd of Seventh month and 
were gone a little over a week. The visit proved pleasant 
to all and exerted a beneficial influence on Susanna's health. 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

Dear Rebecca : — I thought it would interest thee to be 
informed of the proceedings of Elizabeth Robson for a few 
days before leaving us. On Fifth-day evening week, she had 
a public meeting at the North house, favored, though not 
large. The next morning she had an interview with the 
ministers and elders of the city, in which much feeling was 
evinced. In the afternoon [she had] an opportunity with 
the younger classes, members and attenders of our meetings, 
at the Arch Street house. It was largely attended, particu- 
larly on the female side, and she was extensively engaged in 
the love of the Gospel, in persuading to a holy life and con- 
versation. On Seventh-day she saw at her lodgings many 
Friends, who called to have a parting interview with her. 
On First-day morning she was at our meeting, and this, her 
last opportunity, was a memorable one, in which Divine 
goodness was pleased to appear, tendering the hearts of very 
many, and enabling his servant to appear both in testimony 
and supplication, in the love and authority of the Gospel. I 
think I never knew so many tears of tenderness shed in a 
meeting. It seemed like a seal to her services in our land. 



162 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1828. 



She went from the meeting-house to the steamboat, and pro- 
ceeded in the afternoon to New Castle, where the ship was 
waiting. About thirty friends accompanied her to the vessel, 
which immediately got under weigh, as the sailors phrase it. 
She is now, most probably, several hundred miles on her waj # 
to join her family, from whom she has so long been separated. 
* * * Hinchman Haines' wife was buried yesterday. 

to the same. — From the residence of John L. Kite. 

Silver Lake Township, Susquehanna Co., 

Tenth month 10th, 1828. 
Dear Eebecca : — T thought it would please thee to re- 
ceive a token of remembrance from so distant a part of the 
country as this. Thou wast probably aware of my intention 
of visiting my brother and accompanying thy aunt and 
cousin home.* I left Philadelphia last Seventh-day for 
New York ; arrived safely in the evening ; attended at the 
new. meeting-house twice on First-day ; and with A. Braith- 
wait, Henry Hull, Samuel Adams, and other Friends. On 
Second-day I went up the River Hudson to Newburg, and 
was quite unwell on the passage. As the stage was to leave 
Newburg at 2 o'clock in the morning, I went early to bed, 
but between my indisposition and the constant noises in the 
house I did not sleep at all. I ventured to start notwith- 
standing, and continued that day and night for upwards of 
one hundred miles westward. I left the stage on Fourth-day 
morning about 10 o'clock. I could not obtain a passage to 
Montrose without paying an unreasonable price, so I footed 
it. My baggage proved very heavy in a walk of nine miles. 

* Phebe and Abigail Sharpless. They had been on a visit to 
Western New York and intended returning home through Susque- 
hanna Co. 



1828.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 163 

At Montrose I found there would be no stage into brother's 
neighborhood until morning, and therefore, fatigued as I 
was, I set off, and arrived at J. Mann, Jr.'s, about dark. His 
son took me two miles in a dearborn to brother's, where I 
met with a welcome reception. Yesterday I attended Friends - 
ville Preparative Meeting, dined at uncle Jehu [Lord's], and 
visited Dr. Rose and Silver Lake in the afternoon in com- 
pany with brother John. The lake is beautiful. We took 
tea at the doctor's and found his wife and daughters agreea- 
ble. To-day I propose going to Friendsville in company with 
sister Mary L. to make some arrangement for sister Phebe 
and cousin Abby's accommodation when they may arrive 
there, as well as to see the place, and some Friends who re- 
side in that neighborhood. Though very much tired I was 
better in health when I arrived than I had been on my jour- 
ney, and feel very well excepting some soreness. I propose 
waiting in this neighborhood for sister and Abby ; and re- 
turn as soon as they feel ready, by any of the various routes 
which they may prefer. I should not choose, if it were left 
to me, one that travels all night. 

Thomas Kite was desirous that his children should acquire 
a good literary taste and facility in composition. This led 
him to encourage a proposal made by one of his brothers 
that his family and some of their relatives, should combine 
and prepare a periodical, which should be read every Seventh- 
day night during the winter season. Although no one but 
the editor or reader, knew the writer of each particular, yet 
it was the understanding that no one should be present at 
anytime, who had not for that occasion furnished his mite. 
Thomas Kite was a frequent contributor, and some of his 
essays will be added. 



164 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1829. 



T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

Philadelphia, Second month 13th, 1829. 
* * * My time is so much occupied, that I can scarcely 
find leisure even for writing to my beloved child. I feel a 
hope thou art improving, not merely in literary attainments, 
but in a knowledge of thyself, in humility, in love, and in the 
fear of the Lord. Thou well knowest how little parents can 
do for their children in a spiritual sense. They may advise 
them to be faithful to the discoveries of Divine Grace ; they 
may pray for them ; but after all, the main point rests with 
the children themselves. If they obey the call of the Lord, 
He will be a father to them, and they shall be made the 
adopted sons and daughters of the Lord Almighty. I be- 
lieve, my child, thy desires are good. I wish thou may est 
not be too much discouraged by the strength of natural cor- 
ruption, which may sometimes be powerfully felt, but wait 
on the Lord to receive power over them, and be sure to yield 
obedience to the discoveries of his will, even when most ad- 
verse to thy natural inclination. As thou trusts in the Lord, 
and not on thyself, He will make way for thee, and in his 
own time introduce into the glorious liberty of his children. 
In the progress of the great work of the soul's salvation, many 
are the changes we experience ; sometimes rejoicing in the 
light of God's countenance, sometimes mourning its with- 
drawal ; sometimes praying for its restoration. At one time, 
perhaps, thinking our mountain stands strong, at another 
almost overwhelmed with the consciousness of weakness. 
But through all these changes, as the Lord is steadily looked 
to, He will gradually carry on his own work, at times give 
the evidence of his loving kindness, which is better than life, 
in seasons of adversity afford hope, which is as an anchor to 



1830.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



165 



the soul, sure and steadfast, and which entereth into that 
which is within the vail. He will moderate our rejoicings 
in prosperity, keep us in the hour of temptation, guide us by 
his counsel, and afterwards receive us into glory. Feeling 
that all the work is the Lord's, we shall be enabled to render 
Him the praise of it. I find by thy letter to S., that you 
have been favored with the company and gospel labors of 
Ann Jones, and others. 

Fourth month 18th, 1829. To the same. " We have been 
comforted with the arrival of many precious friends to attend 
our annual solemnity. The Meeting of Ministers and Elders 
met this morning, and was a large meeting. We had at 
breakfast Thomas Shilletoe, to meet an Indian, who is a Metho- 
dist minister, and was interpreter for Thomas when he was 
amongst the natives. He is intelligent, and speaks English 
well ; dresses much as Methodists usually do, excepting that 
he is decorated around his waist with a red belt or sash. 

Be particularly careful, dear, of thy health. To this end 
use exercise ; two or three times a day run or walk in the 
open air. I would rather see thee restored to us in good 
health, not knowing quite so much, than that thy attention 
to thy studies should undermine thy health." 

In the Fifth month of this year, Thomas Kite attended the 
Yearly Meeting of Virginia. The service was performed to 
the peace of his own mind. His minute was obtained in the 
Fourth and returned to his Monthly Meeting in the Fifth 
month. 

At Philadelphia Monthly Meeting, held Fourth month 
29th, 1830, he obtained a minute to visit the meetings of 
Friends in Cain and Western Quarterly Meetings. Of this 
journey little account is preserved. He left home on the 



166 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1830. 



12th of the Fifth month, and having passed rapidly through 
the Eastern meetings in Cain Quarterly Meeting, he passed 
into the Western, beginning at London Grove, Fifth-day the 
20th. Daring this journey he was in a low state of mind. 
In writing to his wife, he says : " I have very little to say of 
our meetings, for I think, notwithstanding Friends are very 
kind, I have seldom known a time when I thought myself 
more in need of the sympathy of those who can feel. I am 
desirous of being preserved, wholly given up to do or suffer 
the Divine Will." 

On Second-day, Fourth month 19th, of this year, Dr. John 
D. Godman was buried in Friends' Western ground. His 
funeral was largely attended by the scientific portion of the 
community, and men of more than ordinary pretensions to 
knowledge and literature. On this occasion Thomas Kite 
was remarkably drawn forth in the ministry, setting forth 
the excellency of true religion as compared with kno^Yledge 
and science ; and calling on all the men of exalted minds and 
great attainments to cast their crowns at the feet of Jesus. 

T. K. TO HIS SISTER MARY. 

Philadelphia, Seventh month 1st, 1830. 
Dear Sister : — The ties of natural affection which bind 
the children of one family together, are strong ; but the ties 
of spiritual love which unite the redeemed children of the 
heavenly Father's family, are stronger. May our fellowship 
be increasingly of this latter kind, which does not obliterate 
the former, but exalts and purifies it. Encompassed as I am 
with frailties, feeling myself an unprofitable servant, I never- 
theless greatly desire for thee that thou may est be faithful ; 
that having put thy hand to the plough, thou mayest not 
dare to look back, and through unfaithfulness unfit thyself 



1830.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



167 



for the Heavenly kingdom. As a sincere desire to stand 
approved in the Divine Sight is cherished, and as we centre 
down in humility and stillness before the Lord, he will not 
fail in his own time to show what he would have us to do, 
nor to afford strength to perform it. He sends no one a 
warfare at their own charges ; though he sends his poor dis- 
ciples out without purse or scrip, yet depending in faith on 
Him, they lack nothing. Yield not unprofitably to discour- 
agement ; at the same time be careful to try all openings or 
presentations of a religious nature in the balance of the sanc- 
tuary : and though many baptisms and exercises for the 
Lord's sake, and for the working out of thy own soul's salva- 
tion, may attend, thou wilt know at seasons from the evidence 
of Divine life in thy silent w r aiting on the Lord, that he hath 
not given us the spirit of fear, — that is slavish fear, which hath 
torment, nor of the fear of man, which bringeth a snare — 
but of power, of love, and of a sound mind. 

We have heard from Nathan and William,* who stood 
their journey out admirably. They accomplished [it] in five 
days and a half, which is nearly thirty-two miles a day on 
an average. 

Joshua, the second son of Thomas Kite, towards the close 
of this year, began to suffer much pain in the hip, supposed 
to have arisen from a hurt received by falls whilst skating. 
Whatever the cause, he never recovered from the effect, but 
for several years was quite a cripple. 

Thomas Kite, Jr., the third and youngest son, commenced 
as a scholar at Westtown, Seventh month, 1830. His 
father's first letter to him is dated First month 7th, 1831. 

* : ' r His brother and son, who had taken a pedestrian tour to Susque- 
hanna County, to visit John L. Kite. 



168 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1831. 



Dear Son : — I hope thou dost not forget to read over the 
letter of advice thou carried with thee to Westtown. It may 
serve to remind thee of me, when I am too busy to write to 
thee. Whether I write or not, I am at all times thy deeply 
interested parent, anxious that all the pains taken with thee 
may produce their desired effect, and that thou may grow up 
intelligent, w 7 ell behaved, and, above all, pious ; remember- 
ing thy Creator in the days of thy youth, fearing to offend 
Him, endeavoring to love and serve Him, that He may pre- 
serve thee from temptation, support thee in trouble, conduct 
thee in safety through the wilderness of this world , and finally 
receive thee to his own blessed abode. That, at last, when 
the journey of life is over, this may be thy happy experience, 
is the desire of thy loving father, Thomas Kite. 

He attended the Yearly Meeting held in New York in the 
Fifth month, with a minute of his Monthly Meeting, whence 
he w T rote a letter to his wife, dated Fifth month 24th, 1831, , 
in which, after mentioning having the company of Hannah 
Warrington, Jr., and his cousin Anne Warrington, wife of 
Henry Warrington, of Westfield, on the journey to New 
York, and being accommodated at Samuel Wood's, he notes 
that Samuel and Jane Bettle were lodging at John R. Wil- 
lis's, and then says : " Amongst the strangers attending are 
Daniel Wood, J. and E. Meader, J. Patterson, Abigail Bar- 
ker, Granville Woolman, J. and H. C. Backhouse. So far, 
it has been to me very much a time of suffering, which I de- 
sire patiently to endure, because the blessed Master's cause 
is worthy to be suffered for, and because I know, if I am 
favored rightly to bear the trials dispensed, they will tend to 
purification, which I greatly need. * 

Please remember me affectionately to the family circle, my 



1831.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



169 



parents especially, and my dear Joshua. I have heard what 
has befallen my dear friend Sarah Morris, and sympathize 
much with her in this personal affliction. But she is in the 
hands of a merciful Father, who will enable her to bear up 
under all, as she looks unto Him in child-like dependence. 
He is our only refuge in the hour of trial. May thou and I, 
my love, so live in his fear, that we may experience Him to 
support us in the hour of need, is at this time the prevalent 
desire of thy affectionate, Thomas Kite." 

On the 28th of the Seventh month, Thomas Kite was set 
at liberty by his Monthly Meeting, to attend the meetings 
composing Concord Quarterly Meeting, and appoint meet- 
ings for those not members. His invalid son, Joshua, being 
at his grandmother Sharpless's, in East Bradford, he ad- 
dressed him a letter, dated Seventh month 29th. It begins 
with a description of a destructive fire, which he knew would 
interest the boy, and then adds : 

" This is not the only instance of the uncertainty of all 
things here. Our dear friends Samuel and Jane Bettle, have 
had the affliction of losing their son Thomas, by a sudden 
death. He went on a journey to Easton, Pennsylvania, 
hoping it might benefit his health. He was staying there 
with his cousin Martha Sinton and her family. After tea on 
Second-day evening, he walked out into the yard, and was 
soon found there entirely dead. The afflicted parents have 
this alleviation to their sufferings, that for some time Thomas 
has appeared more seriously disposed. At the house at the 
time of the funeral, and in the grave-yard, much quietness 
and solemnity were felt. His widow appears overwhelmed 
with affliction. But we may hope that our Heavenly Parent, 
who has promised to be a father to the fatherless, and a hus- 
12 



170 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1831. 



band to the widow, will care for her and her babes. In her 
late husband's parents she will find tender and sympathizing 
friends." * * * * * 

After attending Concord Quarterly Meeting, Thomas Kite 
proceeded to fulfil his prospect of visiting the subordinate 
meetings, &c. 

T. K. TO HIS WIFE. 

Middletown, Eighth month 25th, 1831. 
* * * I W as particularly affected with the account of 
dear Abigail Folwell's sudden removal ; at a time when we 
are anxiously looking forward for a succession of testimony- 
bearers from amongst our dedicated youth, to have one of 
the most exemplary of that class called away, is no small 
trial. Yet we dare not murmur. The Lord is perfect in 
wisdom as w T ell as goodness, and can raise up others to bear 
his testimonies, and bless to survivors these stripping dispen- 
sations. With regard to dear Abigail, the testimony lives in 
my heart, " There is now no condemnation to them that are 
in Christ Jesus." She is safe, where no storms or tempests 
can ever assail her, — landed on the peaceful shores of immor- 
tality, and permitted to mingle with the ransomed of the 
Lord, returned to heavenly Zion with everlasting joy upon 
their heads. 

My prospect is to attend Middletown Meeting to-day, 
Darby to-morrow, and return home in the afternoon ; re- 
main there until Seventh-day evening, or First-day morning ; 
then attend Springfield Meeting on First-day. * * * 

Thy expressions of affectionate sympathy are very grateful 
to me. May we ever be preserved in a disposition to " bear 
one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ." 



1831.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



171 



T. K. TO THOMAS KITE, JR. 

Philadelphia, Tenth month 29th, 1831. 
Dear Son : — * * * As usual, I feel anxious thou 
shouldst be diligent in thy studies ; but far more I wish thy 
conduct may be such as to gain thy teacher's esteem. Do 
not be light or trifling, but remember thy Creator in the 
days of thy youth. Remember Him to fear Him, to love 
Him. It is those only who are truly religious, — that is, who 
fear and love God, — who are truly happy in this world, and 
have a hope of being happy in the world to come. Oh ! my 
dear son, I feel ardently desirous that thou may est be of the 
number of those who follow the Lord Jesus Christ, and are 
his faithful disciples. 

Twelfth month 27th. To the same. * * * « Q ur 
citizen, Stephen Girard, died yesterday. His wealth could 
not save him from the common lot. Great curiosity, is no 
doubt, felt, to know how he has left his immense wealth. A 
few days will probably disclose the secret. 

My dear son, be thou attentive to thy learning, and cir- 
cumspect in all things in thy conduct, that so thy affectionate 
mother and myself may have comfort in thee ; for it is writ- 
ten in the good Book, ' A wise son maketh a glad father ; but 
a foolish son is the heaviness of his mother.' " 

On the 29th of Twelfth month, he obtained a minute of 
his Monthly Meeting to visit the families of Friends compos- 
ing Radnor Monthly Meeting. This service he performed 
during the First and Second months, 1832, to the peace of 
his own mind, and " much to the satisfaction of that meeting." 

A concern having arisen in the Yearly Meeting of 1832, 
respecting the situation of its subordinate meetings, a com- 



172 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1832. 



mittee was appointed to visit them, as way might open, to 
feel with and for them, and as ability might be afforded, to 
offer counsel and encouragement. The committee consisted 
of the following Friends : Samuel Bettle, Joseph Whitall, 
Thomas Wistar, Thomas Kite, Thomas Stewardson, John 
Comfort, Ezra Comfort, Thomas Evans, Benjamin Cooper, 
Hinchman Haines, William Evans, Samuel Craft, David 
Cope, Robert Scotton, Ruth Ely, Abigail Barker, Elizabeth 
Pitfield, Mary Allinson, Hannah Paul, Jane Bettle, Regina 
Shober, Martha Jefferis, Hannah Gibbons, Mercy Ellis and 
Hannah Warrington, Jr. 

On Sixth-day, the 4th of Fifth month, Thomas Kite was 
bowed in awful, vocal supplication. The matter continuing 
with him, he afterwards believed it right to reduce it to writ- 
ing. 

Substance of a prayer, Fifth month 4th, 1832. " It is, O 
Lord ! under a sense that none of us can keep his own soul 
alive, that no man can redeem his brother, or give to thee a 
ransom for his soul ; that though Is" oah, Job or Daniel stood 
before thee, they could save neither son nor daughter ; it is 
under a sense of the entire inability of man, that we are en- 
gaged to look unto thee, the Fountain of everlasting life, and 
to ask of thee that thou wilt minister, by thy abiding Word, 
to the various states now assembled before thee. Grant us, 
O Lord, a fresh visitation of thy mercy — the influence of the 
law of the Spirit of Life in Christ Jesus, which alone sets 
free from the law of sin and death — that thus those who have 
been halting between two opinions, may be convinced that 
thou, the God who answereth by fire, art the true God, worthy 
to be worshipped, served and obeyed, and may be strength- 
ened to cast their idols to the moles and to the bats ; and 
those who have once known thy power, but who have settled 



1832.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



173 



upon their lees, may be stirred up and animated to give all 
diligence to lay up a good foundation against the time to 
come, that they may lay hold on eternal life. 

May those who are endeavoring to bear the ark of thy 
testimony upon their shoulders, often in great weakness — 
their hands hanging down, and their knees smiting together, 
be strengthened with might by thy Spirit in their inner man, 
and afresh feel the consoling assurance that thou art God, 
and changeth not, therefore the sons of Jacob are not con- 
sumed. Oh ! Heavenly Father ! may the children be gath- 
ered ! allured from the world, and turned unto thee, who only 
can preserve through the slippery paths of youth. By sub- 
mitting to thy power, may each of them be enabled to say, 
the Lord is my shepherd, therefore I shall not want. , 

We are afresh humbled into a sense of our own unworthi- 
ness. But we remember thy love and mercy, which gave 
thy Son to be a propitiation for our sins. We remember 
that He, our glorified Bedeemer, ever standeth in thy pres- 
ence, to make intercession for us. For his sake we ask thee 
to heal our backslidiugs, to blot out our transgressions, -to 
pardon our iniquities, and through the renewed extendings 
of thy Holy Spirit, to prepare our minds, not only to worship 
thee in thy courts below, but also, O Lord ! for thy heavenly 
kingdom, that at length we may join those who have gone 
before — thy ransomed and redeemed ones — in ascribing unto 
thee salvation and praise ! uniting together in that worship 
which will know no end." 

Thomas Kite made a few notes of the proceedings of that 
branch of the Yearly Meeting's committee, of which he was 
one; consisting of Joseph Whitall, Thomas Kite, Thomas 
Stewardson, Thomas Wistar, Hannah Warrington, Jr., 



174 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1832. 



Martha Jefferis and Hannah Paul. Portions of his memo- 
randa follow : — 

" Fifth month 9th. Attended the Select Quarterly Meet- 
ing of Abington. Beside the committee and Hannah C. 
Backhouse, eight men and thirteen women were present. 
Some evidence of a right concern amongst them. The 
mourners were encouraged. 

10th. Quarterly. Meeting. About 90 men and boys. 
The business was harmoniously attended to; and it was 
thought to be a solid opportunity. The young people be- 
haved wdth great solidity. 

28th. Were at Abington Monthly Meeting. Fourteen 
or fifteen of their own members attended. Beside the Yearly 
Meeting's committee, a committee from the Quarterly Meet- 
ing on the subject of education, was present. There is great 
weakness and want of skill in the discipline ; yet some hover- 
ings of the wing of Ancient Goodness were prevalent. 

29th. Frankford Monthly Meeting. About 30 members, 
exclusive of strangers. A lively concern for the maintenance 
of order, and a more judicious exercise of the discipline 
appeared. The meeting was favored. 

30th. Select Quarterly Meeting of Bucks. The meeting 
small, several of the members being absent. [Christopher* 
Healy was in England]. Towards the close a little revival 
of light and intelligence ; and Friends were encouraged to 
submit to baptisms necessary to qualify for. service in the 
church. 

31st. Quarterly Meeting for business. About 90 persons 
present. Great openness toward the committee appeared, 
and ability to labor was vouchsafed. The meeting was satis- 
factory. 



1832.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



175 



T. K. TO HIS WIFE. 

Whitemarsh, Sixth month 1st, 1832. 

My Dear, * * * We attended [Frankford] Monthly 
Meeting at Gerroantown on Third-day ; dined at Thomas 
Megargee's ; and had Asa Walmesly for a pilot to Byberry. 
We, that is Joseph Whitall and myself, with the two women 
Friends [Hannah Warrington, Jr., and Hannah Paul], 
lodged at his house. We four have been together at every 
place, and my two name-sakes have been accommodated else- 
where. On Fourth-day we attended Bucks Quarterly Meet- 
ing of Ministers and Elders, where sister Martha met us ; 
with whom we went to Moses Comfort Jr.'s. The next day 
was the Quarterly Meeting of business. Sister M. went 
home with Mercy Hulme ;* we went to James Moon's to 
dine and lodge. To-day we have had a wearisome journey 
to Ezra Comfort's, where we now are waiting to attend 
Gwynedd Monthly Meeting to-morrow. * * * We have 
been favored to get along in much unity ; and Friends have 
manifested an agreeable openness towards the committee. 

Sixth month 2nd. Gwynedd Monthly Meeting. About 
twenty of their own members. A few concerned Friends ; 
but as a meeting, in a weak state. 

4th. Buckingham Monthly Meeting. About thirty-three 
members present. A larger number of concerned Friends. 
Yet a danger manifest in respect to taking an active part in 
the discipline, without taking up the cross, or being rightly 
engaged to set a consistent example. 

5th. Wrightstown. Nine or ten members present. Much 
weakness. The mourners had a word of consolation offered 
them. 

-An Elder. 

I 



176 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1882. 



6th. Middletown Monthly Meeting. Thirteen or four- 
teen. A concerned remnant present. Perhaps the most 
comfortable covering of solemnity we have yet experienced. 

7th. Falls Monthly Meeting. Nearly fifty present. An 
honestly concerned number amongst them, but rather defi- 
cient in skill. Judicious fathers wanting. A prospect 
amongst the youth somewhat hopeful." 

After the return of the committee from this visit, they 
were ready for a trip to Stroudsburg and Friendsville, the 
most distant meeting of Abington Quarterly Meeting. They 
left Philadelphia on Third-day, the — of Seventh month. 
It was a serious parting. The Asiatic, or spasmodic cholera 
had just broken out in New York, and from the rapidity of 
its progress, no doubt could be reasonably entertained, but 
that it # would reach Philadelphia before their return. No 
account of this visit has been found amongst Thomas Kite's 
papers. It was, however, performed to their satisfaction. 

During the prevalence of the cholera in Philadelphia, 
Thomas Kite was in the city, except a few excursions to 
meetings in the neighborhood. 

T. K. TO HIS SOX THOMAS. 

Philadelphia, Ninth month 4th, 1832. 
My Dear Sox:— It is a considerable time since I mani- 
fested in this way my interest in thy welfare, which, notwith- 
standing, remains unabated. Whilst my princijDal wish for 
my children is, that they may become the Lord's children, 
which can only be their happy experience by living in his 
fear, I am not indifferent about their welfare and prosperity 
in the world. Hence I desire that thou, in particular, may 
apply thyself diligently to thy studies, that thy talents may 
I 



1832.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 177 



be so improved, that thou may be qualified for whatever 
business it may be found expedient to put thee to. The 
habit of industrious application formed in early life, is of in- 
calculable advantage ; therefore, strive to form and to pre- 
serve this habit. Whatever thy hands find to do, do it with 
all thy might. To be lazy is a reproachful character, and 
yet some boys deserve it. * * * Thy mother and I went 
to Burlington Quarterly Meeting last week. The cholera 
has nearly disappeared. 

On Sixth-day, Eighth month 31st, 1832, William Kite 
went to spend a few days in the neighborhood of Medford, 
where he had taught school. The day he left home, his 
father addressed this letter to him : 

Dear Son : — * * * Whether thou goes abroad or stays 
at home, my thoughts are often turned towards thee, with much 
solicitude for thy present and everlasting happiness. With 
thy conduct towards me as an obedient son, I am fully satis- 
fied. What I w T ish is, that thou may not rest short of the 
experience of regeneration ; that thou may be in truth a 
follower of Jesus Christ, and may know redemption through 
his blood, the forgiveness of sins, the sanctifi cation of thy 
nature, fellowship with the Father and with the Son, and a 
consequent qualification to maintain a lively exercise of 
spirit in public assemblies, and. private retirement. Thus 
wilt thou know, not only the restraints of religion, but also 
the comforts of it ; and as thou art engaged to w r ait for 
heavenly direction, thou wilt, I trust, receive it on all need- 
ful occasions, so as to be conducted safely through the wilder- 
ness of this world, and receive at last a peaceful settlement 
in the promised land. 



178 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1832. 



T. K. TO HIS SON THOMAS. 

Philadelphia, Tenth month 20th, 1832. 

Dear Son : — * * * I expect to go to Baltimore 
Yearly Meeting. * * * Thou, hast heard, I presume, of 
the death of Edward Bettle. He had been a dutiful son to 
his father, and being of good talents, well improved by edu- 
cation, he was not only useful in civil and religious society, 
but had become the companion and counsellor of his father, 
who now mourns the loss of a valuable son. Yet he must 
have the consolation of knowing that he was a religious man, 
a follower of the Lord Jesus Christ, and, therefore, that there 
is ground to hope he is now in a happy state, in w r hich he 
will be forever with the Lord. 

Whilst my desires are undoubtedly strong for thy mental 
improvement, for the proper and diligent cultivation of thy 
natural powers, I yet more earnestly desire that thou may est 
become my friend and counsellor. Mayest thou inherit the 
blessing one of old enjoyed, of whom the Almighty thus 
speaks in the Holy Scriptures : " My covenant was with him 
of life and peace, and I gave it him for the fear wherewith 
he feared me, and was afraid before my name." Then, 
whether thou livest to old age, or thy life should terminate 
in youth, all will be well ; thy example will be salutary to 
survivors,— thy prospects for eternity will be bright. Ah ! 
my son, is not the hope of everlasting happiness a glorious 
hope ! sufficient to animate and encourage us under the diffi- 
culties we must expect to meet with in the present life. 

Thomas Kite having a minute of the unity of his Monthly 
Meeting, attended Baltimore Yearly Meeting ; his wife bore 
him company. The meeting was smaller than usual, owing 
to the fears many were in respecting the cholera. 



1833.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



179 



1833. Philadelphia Yearly Meeting's Committee continued 
its labors, but Thomas Kite has left no account of its visits 
from place to place. 

Edith Kite, having accompanied Gulielma Widdifield to 
New England Yearly Meeting, her husband thus wrote to 
her : 

Philadelphia, Sixth month 21st, 1833. 

My Love : — I was glad to receive thy letter this morning, 
and to hear of thy welfare. It was pleasant to find thou 
hadst met with so many of my dear friends. I sincerely de- 
sire thy visit may prove not only agreeable, but profitable, 
so that thou mayest bring home a little good to me, for I feel, 
and have long felt, very poor, indeed. Yet I do not men- 
tion it in a murmuring spirit. I desire patiently to wait, and 
quietly to hope, for the arisings of Divine Life. And oh ! 
that neither thou nor I may rest satisfied without this ex- 
perience, which will sanctify the comfort we have in each 
other, and enable us to bear up under whatever portion of 
sorrow may be in reserve for us in our future steppings 
through this vale of tears. * * * * 

Give my love to our dear friend Jacob Green. I know 
not how to think of his leaving this country without seeing 
him again. Tell him our jMonthly Meetings are next week, 
and if he comes here on Second-day with you, he may have 
the opportunity of attending them, of taking leave of many 
who feel closely bound to him in the fellowship of the gospel, 
and may be back to New York in time for the ship. 

In the Tenth month of this year, the Monthly Meeting of 
Philadelphia set Thomas Kite at liberty to visit the meet- 
ings of Salem Quarterly Meeting, New Jersey. This service 
he performed in the Eleventh month. 



180 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1834. 



In the Twelfth month, Edith JefFeris was taken ill at the 
house of her uncle, Thomas Kite, and was for a long period 
hardly expected to live. She, however, gradually recovered 
during the spring of 1834, and was enabled to go to the resi- 
dence of her mother, near West Chester, soon after the Yearly 
Meeting. An interesting account of this illness will be found 
in a memoir, published of her life. 

At an adjournment of Philadelphia Monthly Meeting, 
held Fifth month 8th, 1834, Thomas Kite received a minute 
" to pay a religious visit to the meetings composing Shrews- 
bury and Eahway Quarterly Meeting, and also a few meet- 
ings within the limits of Burlington and Haddonfield Quar- 
terly Meetings, particularly those near the sea shore." Soon 
after the Monthly Meeting, he started to fulfil this prospect. 
His first meeting was at Plainfield, his second at Eahway ; 
after which he proceeded to Shrewsbury, where the Quarterly 
Meeting for business was held, on the 15th. On that day he 
addressed a letter to his invalid son Joshua, which contained 
the following paragraph to his wife : 

" My Dear : — I never remember parting with thee with 
more tender emotions of regard and affection. I much desire 
we may both live so near the Heavenly Fountain, as to ex- 
perience an increase of that gospel fellowship which, I trust, 
we have each known something of. I feel my own weakness, 
and desire thy secret sympathy and prayers, that I may be 
preserved in the line of duty ; and when at liberty to return. 
I shall be glad again to be favored with thy company." 

t. k. to his daughter SUSANNA, then at East Bradford. 

Philadelphia, Fifth month 24th, 1834. 
* * * I returned on Fifth-day, before meeting. My 
route was through New Hope, Somersville, and to Plainfield, 



1834.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



181 



which was the first meeting ; then to Rahway ; afterwards 
through New Brunswick to Shrewsbury, where I attended 
the Quarterly Meeting. Thence through Squankum to 
Barnegat, Tuckerton, Gallow 7 ay and Egg Harbor, which was 
the last meeting. 

At Plainfield I climbed to the top of a mountain, and had 
a magnificent view of an extensive landscape, including ]NVw 
York in the distance. The country through w 7 hich I travelled 
from New 7 Brunswick to Shrew sbury is mostly dreary. Heavy 
sand and pine forests, occasionally interspersed with poor 
farms. Shrewsbury is a beautiful village, and Margaret 
Parker, late Allinson, seems quite at home, in a pleasant 
house, with a kind husband. [The house] is surrounded 
with beautiful fields and trees. The Quarterly Meeting w 7 as 
small, and no young Friends belonging to it dress plainly. 
A lamentable case ! which prompts a sigh, in considering 
where the standard-bearers of a succeeding generation are to 
be looked for. Oh ! how fervently I wish that my children 
may be of the number of the few who are willing to bear the 
cross, and to be thoroughly crucified to the world. 

From Shrewsbury to Barnegat is a poor country ; yet the 
various rivers, opening to the ocean, and numerous birds, 
diversified our ride. From thence to Tuckerton the country 
appears better. The meeting at Tuckerton being on a First- 
day, was large, and some of the young people belonging to 
it looked like Friends. I thought the good Master was near 
to bless us. 

We left our chair and horse near this place, and took pas- 
sage by w 7 ater to Leed's Point. * * * The meeting is 
very small, yet contains some concerned friends. 

William Kite had been in w 7 eak health for many months, 



182 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1834. 



and having gone into Chester County for the purpose of re- 
cruiting his energies, his father wrote to him : 

Philadelphia, Sixth month 1 8th, 1834. 
Dear Son : — I was in hopes thou wouldst have written, 
to let us know how the country agrees with thee. * * * 
I feel a strong desire, not only for the restoration of thy 
health, if it please our Heavenly Father to permit it, but 
more so for thy spiritual strength ; that thou mayest be en- 
abled to shake thyself from all hindering things, and press 
toward the mark for the prize of the heavenly calling. 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

Philadelphia, Eighth month 27th, 1834. 

* * * Hannah C. Backhouse, we suppose, met Jonathan 
at Burlington Quarterly Meeting, held yesterday. A num- 
ber of citizens went up, principally attracted by the hope of 
hearing Stephen Grellett give an account of his European 
journey. * 1 * * Farewell ! May this retirement from 
business be blessed to thee ; and a renewal of desire and 
prayer be felt, for more entire dedication and conformity to 
the Divine Will ! 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER SUSANNA. 

Philadelphia, Ninth month 20th, 1834. 

* * * Our dear young friend, Beulah Maule, was 
buried on Second-day last. Though long in declining health, 
and her complaint of a pulmonary character, a bilious fever 
was at last the instrument of her release from the conflicts of 
mortality. I was at the funeral, and dined with the rela- 
tives. A comfortable feeling predominated in the assurance 
that she was one of our Saviour's adopted lambs, whom He 
has gathered to the heavenly sheepfold. 



1834.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



183 



Dr. Porter, our old friend, has also deceased. Some of us 
attended the funeral yesterday. Thus old and young are 
passing away, admonishing all ages to be ready when our 
Lord shall call upon us to give an account of our steward- 
ship. Mayest thou, and I, dear child, increase in devotion 
to our Lord and Master, submitting to the purifying opera- 
tions of his holy hand, until we are prepared, through his un- 
merited mercy, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such 
thing, to join the company of his redeemed. 

On Fifth-day, the 6th of Eleventh month, Thomas Kite 
attended the marriage of James R. Greeves and Abigail 
Sharpless, his niece ; and on the following Second-day, with 
his wife, Rachel Bartram* and Israel W. Morris,— they 
being under appointment of Philadelphia Quarterly Meeting 
— started for Muncy. In allusion to this journey, he wrote : 
" It will require in all of us much self-reduction, and humble 
reliance on Divine aid, to get through with it to profit." 

Being in New Bedford on business in the Tenth month, he 
thus wrote to his wife : 

New Bedford, Tenth month 14th, 1834. 

* * * I yesterday rode out a few miles into the coun- 
try to see our friend Sarah Tucker.f Her health is very 
delicate : but she appears to be alive in the Truth. Her 
husband seems a valuable, solid Friend. I feel inclined to 
go to Fall River Week-day Meeting on Fourth-day, and so 
on to Providence ; visit, once more, my aged friend, Moses 
Brown, and return here on Sixth or Seventh-day. * * * 

* An overseer of Northern District Monthly Meeting. 

f Of this visit, S. T.'s Journal says, " We had a sweet visit yester- 
day from dear Thomas Kite, of Philadelphia ; it was, indeed, com- 
forting and reviving to my drooping mind." Page 148. 



184 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1834. 



On First-day afternoon, Thomas Arnott attended this meet- 
ing, and was to have a meeting yesterday at an adjacent vil- 
lage called Padan aram. The meeting here is not a small 
one. I suppose from 250 to 300 persons attended on First- 
day, of whom, I understood, a number were not members. 
They have a large and convenient brick meeting-house. The 
whole town is so changed, it is difficult to recognize in it the 
Xew Bedford I once before saw. It is now a beautiful place, 
many very splendid mansions adorning the higher parts of 
the town, Great wealth has produced its usual effect, as re- 
gards luxury and extravagance, though, as yet, it is an indus- 
trious community which inhabits it. One house is now erecting 
which, it is supposed, will cost $70,000, and there are many 
which have cost a large proportion of that sum. 

T. K. TO HIS NIECE EDITH JEFFERIS. 

Philadelphia, Twelfth month 21st, 1834. 
I am not very partial to letter-writing, but thy communi- 
cation, my dear cousin, seemed to call for some acknowledge- 
ment, and therefore I have taken up the pen. I needed not 
such a remembrance as thy letter to awaken sympathetic 
feelings with thyself, thy dear mother and sister. Thy 
valued parent can adopt the language of David Barclay, the 
father of the Apologist, " The perfect discovery of the Day- 
spring from on high, how great a blessing has it been to me, 
and to my family." Although her trials have been many, 
and she may yet have some bitter cups to drink of, she knows 
in whom she has believed ; she yet feels the gracious Shepherd 
to be near, and his power and love, as felt in the day of early 
visitation, is still her consolation. To her I have no doubt, 
notwithstanding her bereavement, the declaration will apply 
" Thy Maker is thy husband, the Lord of Hosts is his name/' 



1834.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 185 

May she be strengthened then to lean on Him, and commit, 
not only her own soul, and all her concerns, spiritual and 
temporal, but her children also, to his holy care and keeping. 
And thou, dear cousin, hast, through unutterable mercy, ex- 
perienced the operation of that living Word, by which we 
are born again, and in the experience of the child's state, a 
very precious state, as a new-born babe thou hast desired the 
sincere milk of the Word that thou mightest grow thereby. 
Often in secret, in days that are past, have thy desires been 
gratified, and thou sustained and nourished. But if w T e ex- 
perience a growth, we shall in the Heavenly Parent's time, 
know the weaning state ; and sometimes, as we advance, a 
state of fasting ; which is all in wisdom, to keep us sensible 
of our dependence on the Good Shepherd, who taketh his 
lambs, carrieth them in his bosom, and feedeth them with 
the food convenient for them — of which He is the judge. 
Now, as these operations are often painful, the weanings and 
the fastings, it is important that the child should neither 
murmur, nor look out for forbjdden gratifications, which the 
enemy will not fail to present, in one shape or another, and 
sometimes he may in degree take the mind captive, when 
the holy watch is not rightly maintained. Yet the reproofs 
of instruction will follow ; and as the child bows under the 
rod, reconciliation and forgiveness will be known. Thus led 
along and instructed, the knowledge of its own weakness keeps 
pace w T ith its discoveries where strength is to be obtained, 
and gradually the young man's state is obtained, who is 
strong because the Word of God abideth in him, and because 
he has in a good degree overcome the wicked one. And 
now the Lord expects, in his own w r ay, and in his own time, 
his children to labor for Him — to endure hardness as good 
soldiers — not to be ashamed of the cross ; for they that are 
13 



186 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1834. 



with the Lamb, are called, and chosen, and faithful. I feel 
desirous, dear Edith, that thou mayest become of this dedi- 
cated number, so that whether few or many days are allotted 
thee, or whether thy prospects as to this world be adverse or 
prosperous, thou mayest stand for the cause of the holy 
Redeemer in thy generation, and at length be permitted to 
join the innumerable multitude whose robes are made white 
in the blood of the Lamb ! Salute in my name thy dear 
sister Ann : tell her to keep near the Truth in her own 
heart, and to choose the friends of Truth for her friends. I 
know that in faithfully bearing the cross she will meet with 
many mortifications ; but may she be willing to confess the 
Lord Jesus in life and conversation, and then these mortifi- 
cations will prove blessings ; and she will be strengthened 
not only to be a comfort to her exercised parent, who can 
have no greater joy than to see her children walking in the 
Truth, but she will also be enabled to unite with thee, so that 
you can bear one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of 
Christ. And above all she will experience that peace which 
is the portion of the followers of Jesus Christ. 



1835.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



187 



CHAPTER X.— 1835. 

EDITH JEFFERIS' APPEARANCE IN THE MINISTRY — DEATH 
OF T. K.'S SON JOSHUA — MARRIAGE OF AARON SHARP- 
LESS TO SUSANNA KITE. 

In the First month, 1835, with the unity of his Monthly 
Meeting, Thomas Kite visited the meetings constituting 
Burlington and Haddonfield Quarterly Meetings, except the 
few on the sea coast which he had so recently attended. The 
journey was performed during the continuance of a very re- 
markably severe frost. 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

Philadelphia, Second month 20th, 1835. 
Thou wilt see in to-morrow's " Friend" an obituary notice 
of Lydia S. Rogers ; thou may easily guess from whose pen. 
Much more might have been said with truth ; but perhaps 
what is given will suffice to give evidence that she is added 
to the " cloud of witnesses" of the effect of the Gospel in pre- 
paring for the close of life. Her last expressions I think 
peculiarly striking.* 

* * * Since thy absence I have thought of thee with 
earnest desires, that nothing may turn thee aside from atten- 
tion to the one thing needful. I want thee to live not unto 
thyself, but unto thy God and Saviour. I want thee to watch 
unto prayer ; and taking no mortal for thy standard, aspire 
after purity of heart and dedication of life. That our So- 
ciety has need of faithful laborers is very evident. Oh, that 
the visited children, may keep under the forming hand of 

* See Youthful Piety, p. 197, 1st ed. ; 229, 2nd ed., for an account 
of her by Thomas Kite. 



188 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1835. 



the heavenly Potter, and be made into vessels for his use, 
that his power may be made manifest in the faithfulness of 
those who are now coming on the stage of action ; and that 
to our poor, but still highly favored Society, the language 
may be addressed, "Arise, shine, for thy light is come, and 
the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee." 

Love to dear aunt Martha and the girls. I hear cousin 
Ann is coming with thee ; she will be welcome to us. Don't 
forget to mention me in affectionate terms to cousin T. 
[Tamasine Morris] and her companion. I hope they will 
set out right, by giving religiorl the first place. The things 
of the world will prosper better by this means with them, I 
am well assured. 

Having received from his sister-in-law, Martha Jefferis, in- 
formation that her daughter Edith had appeared in a public 
meeting in the line of the ministry, T. K. thus wrote to her. 

Philadelphia, Third month 7th, 1835. 
Dear Sister : — Thy letter of the 22nd of last month was 
very acceptable to us, and was the means of renewedly 
quickening in our minds that sympathy which those, who are 
in measure baptized by one spirit into one body, are at times 
favored to experience, and by which they become as epistles 
written in each other's hearts. Such varied and important 
circumstances as have of late happened in thy domestic circle, 
have no doubt called into action all that is capable of feeling 
within thee. Dear sister, mayest thou not forget the privi- 
lege of the believer, but endeavor to cast thy burden upon 
the holy High Priest ; touched with the feeling of our in- 
firmities, and commend thyself, thy children and all thy 
concerns, to his Father and thy Father, to his God and thy 



1835.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



189 



God. It is always interesting to those who have themselves 
passed through the exercises attendant on coming forth as 
soldiers in the Lamb's Army, to be informed that any are 
publicly manifesting their attachment to his glorious cause. 
They know by experience the hearts of these — their fears, 
anxieties and baptisms of spirit. This interest is of course 
heightened in the case mentioned in thy letter, by strong 
natural affection, by long and intimate acquaintance, and 
relationship almost paternal. I need Dot say how much I 
have felt, nor that my desires are strong for dear Edith's 
preservation, and that in simplicity and godly sincerity she 
may follow in the clear unfoldings of the Master's will. If 
the work be of Him, He will own it, by the incomes of peace 
in her own breast, and by opening the hearts of his children 
to receive her testimony. But exercises she must expect to 
meet with ; they are the lot of all. She must learn to endure 
hardness as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. She must know 
how to be abased, as well as how to abound. But if the 
Gospel has its tribulations, it has also its consolations ; and 
may no unfaithfulness on her part deprive my dear cousin 
of access to that " pure river of water of life, clear as crystal," 
which is given no less for refreshment than for purification. 

Much depends, I have thought, dear sister, in the present 
state of the church, on our all, younger and elder, keeping 
our places. Though we may seem to be individually of little 
account, yet in a firm, united exercise, there is strength ; and 
there is a call for all who feel for the cause of Zion, to stand 
in their respective allotments, laboring as fresh ability is 
vouchsafed, for the removal of wrong things, for strengthen- 
ing the things which remain which are ready to die, and for 
exalting the standard of Truth. For Zion's sake not holding 



190 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1835. 



their peace, until the righteousness thereof go forth as bright- 
ness, and the salvation thereof as a lamp that burnetii. 

Dear cousin A. has been pleasantly with us. I cannot but 
think her improving ; and many times have I wished for 
her that her intelligent mind, her quick and lively abilities, 
w-ere all sanctified and made meet for the Master's use. 
Though nature may be reluctant to yield, when once will- 
ingly submitted to, she will find, as many have found to their 
humble admiration, that " his yoke is easy and his burthen 
light." 

In the Sixth month, 1835, Thomas Kite attended New 
England Yearly Meeting. It was a deeply proving pros- 
pect, for his son Joshua was very ill, yet believing that his 
Master called him thither, and having the consent and unity 
of his Meeting in the concern, he gave up in submission. It 
was a trying meeting ; some of the principles of Isaac 
Crewdson had found advocates within the borders of that 
Yearly Meeting, and their spirits were to be felt. 

On one of the days of the Yearly Meeting an individual, 
standing high w r ith some Friends, commenced a regular 
attack upon Philadelphia Yearly Meeting, and ended by 
proposing the discontinuing any correspondence with it. 
Thomas Kite believed it his duty to reply to the charges ; 
confuting one after another in the order in w r hich they had 
been made. Elisha Bates was present, and active in en- 
deavoring by his ministry to uphold the unsound sentiments 
he had imbibed in England, or which having been imbibed 
before, received there nourishment and strength. Hearing 
more unfavorable accounts respecting the health of his son, 
Thomas Kite hurried home as fast as was practicable. The 
poor sufferer w r as still living when his father returned. 



1835.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



191 



T. K. TO NATHAN SHARPLESS AND WIFE. 

Philadelphia, Sixth month 24th, 1835. 
Dear Brother and Sister : — Our poor sufferer has 
been released, and rather unexpectedly, at last. He ceased 
to breathe seventeen minutes past 12 [this day]. It is cause 
of thankfulness that I was permitted to see him, and be 
present at his departure. I reached home on Seventh-day 
afternoon. The Yearly Meeting closed with one sitting on 
Sixth-day. 

J. W. TO THOMAS KITE. 

Hopkinton, Seventh month 20th, 1835. 
Thou art not wanting for some in New England, my dear 
friend, to sympathize with thee and family in the loss of thy 
dear son, whose sickness did, undoubtedly, make thy absence 
whilst with us, very trying both to thee and them. I hope 
an assurance of his preparation for such an event, has been 
witnessed, and proved a healing balm to his bereaved and 
afflicted relatives. I hope also thou wilt not be induced to 
repine that thou wast so much away during his sickness, for 
many of us were truly glad of thy company and help at our 
late Annual Meeting. A confirmation was not wanting, 
that it was in the ordering of Wisdom that thou wast with 
us at so trying a time, when mourning and secret suffering 
was so prevalently our lot. At times the hour and power of 
darkness was suffered to overshadow the feast of our solemni- 
ties, and so to becloud many innocent minds, that good dis- 
cernments seemed wanting to distinguish between that which 
is, and that which is not bread. Nevertheless, there were a 
few seasons in which there was truly a little living bread 
broken and distributed. How lamentable it was to see the 



192 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1835. 



attempts — I believe as regards some, successful attempts — to 
take this living bread out of the children's mouths, and to 
proffer a fair show of that which is not bread, and I fear . 
contained poison. * * * Please accept my tender love, 
my dear friend, for thyself, thy wife and children. 

T. K. ? S TESTIMONY CONCERNING HIS SON JOSHUA. 

t " In the Sixth month, 1835, my second son, Joshua, de- 
parted this life, being in the 19th year of his age. He had 
for a number of years endured much bodily suffering, which 
I humbly trust was sanctified to him, he being enabled to 
bear it with a good degree of patience. In his last illness 
his diffident disposition prevented his saying much, but the 
little of a serious nature he did express was very satisfactory ; 
and I have a consoling hope, that his spirit has been per- 
mitted to join the company seen by John in the opening of 
light, who had come out of much tribulation, and washed 
their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb." 

In the Ninth month, 1835, Susanna Kite, with the appro- 
bation of her parents, was united in marriage to Aaron Sharp- 
less. Her home was thenceforward in East Bradford, Chester 
Co., and thither the day after the wedding she accompanied 
her husband, taking her sister Rebecca with her. 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

f 

* * * I have seen nothing of Jane, but we all had a 
piece of wedding cake. I wish her well ; but my expecta- 
tions of her future comfort are not very sanguine ; yet real 
religion will be to her, if she keeps under its influence, as it 
is to every one who is so wise as to embrace it, a regulating 



18350 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



193 



principle in prosperity, and a balm in affliction. It has been 
pleasant to have thy dear aunt Martha's company. I went 
with her to infant school. She seemed quite interested in 
the little creatures. From thence we went to see Sarah 
Gibbons, who is evidently declining. The ties of nature 
cling around her heart, but that Divine power under whose 
precious influence she evidently abides, can, in his own time, 
strengthen her to let go her fondest attachments, and^prepare 
her to adopt the language, " Come, Lord Jesus, come quickly, 
thy servant is ready." * * * Give my kindest, tenderest 
greeting to thy dear sister. I feel for her more than it is 
proper to express. Her lot seems fixed, so far as we can 
perceive, I have no doubt she Avill endeavor to discharge her 
new duties with Christian propriety ; and I trust she may be 
the instrument, not merely of contributing to her husband's 
earthly comfort, but also of promoting his religious welfare, 
and strengthening his resolutions to walk worthy of Him 
who hath called us to his kingdom and glory. Such I am 
sure she may be, if she is daily concerned to seek and to 
wait for holy help. 

And mayest thou, dear child, the child ©f many prayers, 
keep near the Good Hand that visited thee in early life, that 
the promise of future usefulness may not be blighted, but 
that abiding in the Vine, subjected to the power of the Holy 
Redeemer, thou mayest, in due season, bring forth fruits to 
his praise. Married or single, I greatly desire for my children, 
that whether they eat or drink, or whatever they do, they 
may do all to the glory of God. 

After visiting Susanna at her new home, her father wrote 
to her : — 



194 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1835. 



Philadelphia, Tenth month 3rd, 1835. 

Dear Susanna : .* * * Thou mayest remember I 
mentioned on Second-day, that I heard a noise which I ap- 
prehended was the blowing up of a powder mill. It turns 
out that Dupont's powder mill exploded, by which event two 
men lost their lives. 

I find that our amiable cousin, Ezra Jones, has deceased. 
He finished his earthly course on Seventh-day last. He was 
out in the parlor every day until his last, as I have been in- 
formed. I know nothing of the state of his mind, excepting 
that he expected his disease to terminate as it did. I think 
he was pious, and therefore I trust his hope and expectation 
were placed on his Redeemer, and that through Him, he 
found acceptance. Thou seest, dear, how brief his marriage 
life has been ; another instance of the uncertainty which 
attends our prospects of sublunary bliss ; by which we ought 
to be admonished to remember our Creator, the design of 
our being brought into existence, the necessity of living unto 
Him, so that we may be preserved, in the enjoyment of his 
gifts, from forgetting the Giver, or seeking to have our 
Heaven here. We cannot be heirs of two kingdoms. I can 
speak the more feelingly, because, surrounded as I am with 
domestic comforts, and favored in my domestic relations, I 
find the necessity of close watchfulness to keep my attach- 
ment to created things in subordination to the love of un- 
created purity. I wish this may be thy daily prayer to the 
Fountain of our mercies, for thyself and thy dear partner, 
that your mutual love may be sanctified, and prove no hin- 
drance to your journey towards the celestial city. Our 
Society, in many places, is in a low state. The want of faith- 
fulness to the cause of God is the reason of this. Though 
the harvest is great, the field of labor extensive, the laborers 



1835.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



195 



are few. My spirit intercedes for you, my dear children, 
that by submission to the Grace which brings salvation you 
may be prepared for usefulness in the Church, that even now 
you may prefer Jerusalem above your chief joy, and by acts 
of daily dedication be preparing more conspicuously to evince 
your devotion to the cause of Christ, when the few faithful 
standard-bearers who yet remain in ycgir neighborhood shall 
have entered their everlasting rest. * * * 

With the approbation of his Monthly Meeting, Thomas 
Kite attended Baltimore Yearly Meeting. On his return he 
thus wrote to his daughter Susanna : — 

Philadelphia, Eleventh month 7th, 1835. 
My Dear Daughter : — Before I set out for Baltimore 
I could not make it suit to w T rite to thee, and since my return 
I have been at a meeting of one description or another every 
day until to-day. I am now seated to converse a little with 
my absent child. I made my home at Baltimore with Hugh 
Balderston, S. Bettle with Joseph King, Jr., and Stephen 
Grellett with Nicholas Popplin, a German Friend, who, like 
himself, had formerly been a Boman Catholic. Though 
lodging at different houses, we were much together, and 
mostly dined and took tea at the same places. We gene- 
rally had the company of Hannah Paul, Sarah Hillman and 
Susan P. Smith, who put up at the same place with S. Bettle. 
* * * Notwithstanding in meetings I met with trials of 
feelings, and inward exercises, yet between whiles I had -often 
rich enjoyment in the Society of Friends, and sometimes our 
meetings were in degree favored. Though the state of things 
is low, in the general, yet there are individual cases of dedi- 
cation to the best of causes, and a few young people seem 
under the preparing hand of the Lord for future usefulness 



196 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1835. 



io the Church. May they be kept humble and teachable, and 
thus escape being taken in the snare of the enemy who will 
seek to entangle them with the friendship of the world, which 
is enmity with God. Then, through the same Divine Power 
which raised up our predecessors in the Truth, some of them 
may become burning and shining lights. 

We have had the company of Joseph and Rebecca Batty, 
from Friendsville Meeting, for several days at our house. 
The latter is an approved minister, and seems a sweet and 
amiable friend. They attended Abington Quarter this week, 
and have gone homeward. Dost thou know that EKzabeth 
Fell, sister to Edith, who is now a teacher in our Select 
School, is making her home with us ? 

T. K. TO EDITH JEFFERIS. 

Philadelphia, Eleventh month 21st, 1835. 
Understanding that an opportunity will occur this after- 
noon, my dear Edith, I feel a freedom to address thee, desir- 
ing, as I do, the preservation of all the Lord's children, and 
more particularly of those who have demonstrated on whose 
side they are, by making themselves, in obedience to appre- 
hended duty, spectacles to angels and to men. These have 
their natural dispositions, propensities, and peculiarities, of 
which the enemy fails not to avail himself, in endeavoring to 
withdraw them from that watchful state in which safety is 
experienced ; and when he has in some degree prevailed over 
them, he is very artful in trying to prevent their return to 
the state in wdiich the gentle intimations of the Divine Will 
are witnessed. Thus are they exercised at times ; " without 
are fightings, within are fears/' and not feeling the same 
access as at former seasons to the Fountain of living waters, 
they are ready to fear that God hath forgotten to be gracious. 



1835.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



197 



It is important for such not to forget — I greatly desire for 
thee that thou mayest not forget — that as a father pitieth his 
children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear Him ; that He has 
made a rich provision for us in his dear Son, the merciful 
and faithful High Priest ; touched with a feeling of all our 
infirmities ; and that it is his will, if his dear children should 
at any time miss their way, that they should return through 
Him, who is the way, the truth and the life, our advocate 
with the Father, and the Propitiation for our sins. 

I desire thy encouragement, and, that having put thy hand 
to the Gospel plough, thou mayest not look back, but that, 
pressing onward, thou mayest be led in the middle path out 
of all extremes. It is a narrow but a safe way. " Its walls 
are salvation, and its gates praise." If deep plungings and 
strippings should sometimes be thy experience, and the cause 
be hidden from thee, perplex not thyself thereat, nor open 
thy inward state too freely to any mortal. The Lord Almighty 
doeth all things well. He has led his devoted servants in this 
way to wean them from a dependence on aught but himself, 
who remains to be the saving strength of his anointed. Even 
the dear Master, our example, trod the wine-press alone, and 
of the people there was none with Him. It is the privilege 
of his disciples, remembering his many gracious promises, to 
lay aside every weight and the sin which cloth so easily beset, 
and to run with patience the race which is set before them, 
looking unto Jesus. Let thy eye be single unto Him, in 
heights and in depths, in poverty and in aboundings, and 
thou wilt then, in his own time, witness the lifting up of the 
light of his countenance. Thou wilt gradually learn to en- 
dure hardness as a good soldier of Jesus Christ — learn clearly 
to distinguish his voice, so as to " preach the preaching that 
he bids thee," and keeping to this in child-like obedience, 



198 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1835. 



the Word of the Lord will have free coarse and be glorified, 
thy own soul at times will be as a watered garden, for " He 
that watereth shall be watered himself ; and the praise be 
ascribed where it is due." 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER SUSANNA. 

Philadelphia, Eleventh month 29th, 1835. 

* * * Thy certificate was sent to Pennock Passmore 
by the Westtown stage, yesterday. I feel an anxious solici- 
tude, at times, that in the meeting to which that document 
will join thee, thou may est be enabled to fill up thy place 
with propriety, giving evidence of the preference of the dear 
Master's cause to every earthly comfort ; choosing as first in 
importance the kingdom of Heaven and the righteousness 
thereof, and patiently submitting to those humbling, cleans- 
ing baptisms of spirit, which prepare us for the Lord's service. 

Our respective Monthly Meetings in the city have concluded 
to open an evening meeting at Arch Street House. Many 
Friends have been desirous of such an opportunity of meeting 
their brethren and sisters from all parts of the city in the 
exercise of social worship, in the hope that it will strengthen 
the bond of religious fellowship, as well as that these occa- 
sions may be useful to the younger branches of the Society. 
Others have felt fears that they may prove of some disad- 
vantage. The experiment is to be tried. May young and 
old attend them under a reverent sense of the weight and 
importance of holding them in the authority and power of 
Truth, and then we may humbly hope that through the con- 
descending goodness of a gracious God, they may tend to 
his honor, and the comfort and strength of his people. 

Thou wert probably aware that Elizabeth C. Mason has 
been in poor health latterly. She has so far recovered as to 



1835.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



199 



attend meeting last Fifth-day. She went there in obedience 
to apprehended duty, kneeled down and appeared vocally in 
solemn supplication. Thou knowest my friendship for her, 
and art aware, it is likely, of my belief that she is a solidly 
concerned Friend. Thou canst easily imagine my feelings 
are deeply interested in desire for her preservation and en- 
couragement in the path of dedication ; and also, that, seeing 
the harvest is great, and the laborers few, the Lord of the 
harvest may be pleased to send forth more laborers.. 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER SUSANNA. 

Philadelphia, Twelfth month 11th, 1835. 
Dear Daughter : — I have been lately reading the life 
of James Macintosh, written by his son. I am partial to 
biography, where the character is fairly laid open ; and I 
think in this instance the author has succeeded well, neither 
wholly concealing, nor indecently exposing, his father's errors. 
James was an eminent political and literary character, not 
long since flourishing in England. First a physician, and 
afterwards a lawyer, he filled for a number of years the station 
of a judge at Bombay. After his return to England he was 
mostly in parliament during the remainder of his life. He 
produced several important works, amongst which are a 
History of Ethical Philosophy, several volumes of a general 
history of England, and a minute account of the Revolution 
of 1685, which placed William and Mary on the throne of 
England. The last work was posthumous, and unfinished 
by him, but has been completed by a very inferior hand. 
One of the greatest faults of James Macintosh gently touched 
on by his son, was his inordinate fondness for society, in the 
indulgence of which propensity his most serious occupations 
were abandoned. From an extract from his private Diary, 



200 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1835. 



given in the Memoir, I infer that in younger life he was sensi- 
ble of religious impressions of a very tender character. Such, 
I suppose,- to be at one time or other, an universal experience, 
though too often very much effaced in the commerce of the 
world, which was probably in a great degree his case. His 
last illness was occasioned by inadvertently swallowing a 
chicken bone. The progress of his disease, and his closing 
scene is depicted by his daughter, who appears from this 
sketch to have been a religious character, in an interesting 
manner. Serious reflection prevailed in those solemn mo- 
ments. Day after day found him more disengaged from 
interest in political affairs, and more solicitous as regarded 
the awful after-scene. There is ground to hope that his 
vigorous understanding was brought to bow in child-like 
submission to the cross of Christ. 

The packet of letters by sister Phebe met with a cordial 
reception. We are always glad to hear from our absent 
one, and all the details of domestic affairs were welcome. 
The aspiration frequently ascends, that amidst these multiplied 
engagements, the most important of all concerns may continue 
to hold the chief place in thy affections ; and that every thing 
else, however proper in its place, may be subordinate. When 
the current of our earthly concerns flows smoothly, and every 
thing is smiling around ns, it is difficult to realize the truth, 
that days of trial are in reserve for us, notwithstanding all 
human experience proclaims it. Xo language can set forth 
adequately the necessity and advantage of living in the pre- 
serving fear of the Lord. Then may we, if this be our blessed 
experience, view all events as ordered by our heavenly Father, 
and designed to contribute to our everlasting benefit, kn own- 
ing all things to work together for good, and having, in the 
greatest afflictions that can befall us, a sure refuge in those 



1836.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



201 



compassions which fail not. May my beloved child so live 
in the sight of the Searcher of hearts, so submit to the sanc- 
tifying operations of his Holy Spirit, that she may always 
experience his protection, and the language be applicable to 
her, " He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his 
wings shalt thou trust ; his truth shall be thy shield and 
buckler." 



CHAPTER XI.— 1836-1837. 

DEATH OF MARY YARNALL — SEVERAL LETTERS DEATH 

OF OTHNIEL ALSOP OHIO YEARLY MEETING — JAMES 

KITE MARRIED TO LYDIA B. RODMAN — ABIGAIL GREEVE's 
DEATH. 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER SUSANNA. 

Philadelphia, First month 23rd, 1836. 
My letter turns out little more than a bulletin of intelli- 
gence concerning our friends' want of health. This may not 
be without its use in putting us in mind, what we need often 
to be reminded of, the uncertainty of health and other tem- 
poral blessings, and ought to stir up to diligence in endeavor- 
ing to secure an admittance into the house not made with 
hands, not one of whose inhabitants can say they are sick. 

T. K. TO MARTHA JEFFERIS. 

Philadelphia, Third month 3rd, 1836. 
Dear Sister : — Uncle Ellis Yarnall has requested me to 
give thee an account of his most afflicting bereavement, the 
14 



202 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1836. 



removal of aunt Mary, under circumstances of peculiar trial 
to the surviving members of their family, and of solemn 
admonition to us all. On Seventh-day morning last, she 
requested uncle to walk out with her, intending to call and 
see two friends, one of whom had been sometime ill. After 
going as far as Broad Street, finding the walking unpleasant 
in consequence of the snow, she concluded to return home 
without accomplishing her visits. On her way [back], the 
near approach of a cart or wagon, somewhat agitated her, 
so that she had to stop a minute to recover herself. On 
reaching home, she w 7 ent into cousin Amy's room, and sat 
down near the fire, appearing fatigued, and mentioned that 
the air had been too keen for her. Cousin Sarah handed her 
camphor, and then went, to see her brother Charles' wife. 
Cousin Amy asked her if she would have an egg beaten up 
for her ; and on her assenting, went down stairs to prepare 
it. On returning, not having been absent more than five 
minutes, she found her mother lying on the floor, with her 
head near the grate, having fallen from her chair. The cries 
of our afflicted cousin soon brought uncle and others into the 
room, but life was gone. It is supposed her death was caused 
by apoplexy, and that it was instantaneous. The body was 
a little burnt about the head and face, and a small portion 
of blood issued from the nose. The alarm having been given, 
four physicians were soon present, but their services were not 
needed. Uncle seemed wonderfully supported through the 
trying scene ; his daughters, as might have been supposed, 
were greatly agitated. The funeral was on Second-day. The 
inclemency of the weather, and the absorbing nature of the 
event, prevented invitations being sent into the country. My 
wife and I attended the interment. Yesterday I went to the 
house of mourning, and found dear uncle preparing to go to 



1836.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 203 

the Week-day Meeting. I stayed with Sarah and Amy, 
Benjamin and Charles' wives, and two women friends. The 
minds of our cousins appeared much tranquilized. Cousin 
Amy seems favored to take a just view of the subject. I 
trust she will be preserved from sinking under this bereave- 
ment, which the whole family appear to feel very keenly, 
and which I ardently desire may be sanctified to them. 

I have little room to speak of the interest we feel in thy 
movements, the sympathy we have in thy trials, the desire 
we feel that right direction may be vouchsafed, and the con- 
fidence we have that in the path of duty, "as thy day,. so 
shall thy strength be." 

I might have added, that the sick friend aunt designed to 
call on, died just about the same time she did. 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER SUSANNA. 

Third month 7th. On Seventh-day evening our neighbor, 
Griffith Edwards, departed this life, aged nearly 83 years. 
He has long been of a meek and quiet spirit ; and his hopes 
of future happiness being founded on a humble trust in re- 
deeming mercy, his family have good grounds of comfort 
concerning him. He died of old age, the machine, appar- 
ently, worn out. 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

Fifth month 14th. * * * Time but for a short note, 
just to show the continuance of that interest in thy welfare, 
and those desires for thy establishment in the path of recti- 
tude and peace, which continually attend me, when my mind 
is drawn seriously to think of thee. There are many objects 
of pursuit which seem, in moderation, lawful, some of which 



204 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1836. 



are decidedly agreeable, and add to innocent enjoyment ; 
but " one thing is needful." It is so; because if this be not 
secured, all is lost, and we have lived in vain ! I wish to 
impress upon thy mind the importance of decision, that the 
great object in thy view may be to live to the glory of thy 
Creator and Redeemer. Let this mind be in thee which was 
also in Christ Jesus, who said, " My meat is to do the will of 
Him that sent me, and to finish his work." My heart is 
warmed towards thee ; and I could add more, but time ad- 
monishes me to close. 

I have information that Stephen Grellett is also to be at 
if ew York Yearly Meeting. Think of me when [I am] there. 

Thomas Kite had been set at liberty by his Monthly 
Meeting, in the Fourth month, to attend the Yearly Meeting 
of New York. 

T. K.*TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

Philadelphia, Fifth month 20th, 1836. 
Dear Rebecca : — I can hardly comply with thy request 
at this time for " a long real letter," because I expect to take 
my departure this morning in the ten o'clock steamboat for 
ifew York, and have yet some preparatory arrangements to 
make ; yet my letter shall be " real," so far as to convey the 
genuine feelings of a father's heart, with which thou art not 
unacquainted ; but having them revived, " to stir up the pure 
mind by way of remembrance," may not be unattended with 
profit, if thou art renewedly led thereby to seek for counsel 
and strength to walk worthy of the care of thy parents, and 
the distinguishing favor of thy Heavenly Father. Thou hast 
been a child for whom many prayers have been offered, — on 
whom much instruction in the way of righteousness has been 



1836.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



205 



bestowed ; nor has, I am persuaded, the immediate operation 
of the Holy Spirit, " by which we are sealed to the day of 
redemption," been wanting. I wish the language of thy 
heart to be, " What shall I render to the Lord for all his 
benefits ?" I wish thee to w T ait in retirement of spirit for the 
unfoldings of his will, and that nothing may prevent from 
acting in conformity thereto. Thou hast by this time had 
sufficient experience to understand the weak points of thy 
character, — the manner in which the enemy has heretofore 
prevailed. This ought to suggest where to set a double 
watch. The Christian life is a warfare ; the Christian soldier 
ought to be always armed, always vigilant, ]est Satan get an 
advantage over us, for we are not ignorant of his devices. 
The state of the Church is often the subject of my medita- 
tions, and, I have no doubt, of thine, also. We see the in- 
roads made by the spirit of the world ; some of our members 
going into the earth, others into the air ; the trained servants 
few, — the veterans removing, — the ark tottering. Is this a 
time for those who love the blessed cause to be amusing 
themselves, — to be indulging even the amiable instincts of 
their natures, — cultivating friendships and partialities, — in- 
dulging a refined taste, and doing their own works, when the 
Lord has need of them ? There is nothing gloomy or mo- 
rose in religion. There is room enough in its paths for all 
the finest feelings of our nature to operate. But still let us 
devote our best to the Great Proprietor of all, and wait to 
experience those baptisms of spirit, which will prepare us in 
the way designed by Infinite Wisdom to promote the cause 
of truth and righteousness, — to manifest our devotion to the 
cause of Christ. In this way the blessing of the Highest will 
rest upon us ; all lawful engagements will be sanctified ; we 
shall answer the end of our creation, serve the Lord in our 



206 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1836. 



generation, and receive " the end of our faith, even the salva- 
tion of our souls." In haste I bid thee farewell, remaining 
in the bonds, and, I hope I may say, the fellowship of the 
Gospel, thy affectionate father. 

T. K. to e. s. F. 

Philadelphia, Seventh month 21st, 1836. 
Dear Elizabeth : — Whatever things are honest, what- 
ever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever 
things are lovely, whatever things are of good report : if 
there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on 
these things ; and be not satisfied merely with thinking, but 
let them be carried out into practice in thy life and conver- 
sation. * * * Thou hast, I believe, a love for Truth, — 
a desire to flee from the wrath to come, and to lay hold on 
eternal life. May these desires, and every virtuous inclina- 
tion, be strengthened. One hint more : be very choice of 
thy associates. Admit none to thy confidence, who are not, 
in thy judgment, aiming at consistency of life in the Chris- 
tian calling. Be courteous to all, intimate with few. In 
conclusion, " I commend thee to God, and to the Word of his 
Grace, which is able to build thee up, and give thee an in- 
heritance amongst those who are sanctified." 

Thomas Kite left Philadelphia on Second-day, the 22nd of 
Eighth month, with a minute of his Monthly Meeting, to at- 
tend Ohio Yearly Meeting. James R. Greeves was his com- 
panion on this journey. 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

Blair's Gap, on the top of the Alleghany Mountains, 

Eighth month 24th, 1836. 
Dear Daughter : — * * * Cousin James and I en- 



1836.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 207 



tered the car at Oakland Hotel about 11 o'clock, on 
Second-day, and reached Columbia a little after 3 p. m. 
We were soon on board the canal boat "Virginia," small in 
dimensions, but very comfortable ; and passing up the canal, 
proceeded by Harrisburg, which we did not reach till after 
dark. In the morning we found ourselves five miles up the 
Juniata. On Third-day we passed Newport, Mifflin, Lewis- 
town, &c. Night closed upon us near Waynesburg. This 
morning, on rising, we found ourselves five miles west of 
Huntingdon. We reached Hollidaysburg between 2 and 3 
p. m., and ascended the Portage Railroad, by horse-power 
and stationary engines, reaching this place by half-past 5, 
where we propose sleeping, and descending the mountain at 
an early hour. Our accommodations have been comfortable, 
and the' two companies pretty well, myself excepted. * * 
[The other company contained Sarah Emlen, Esther Levis, 
Jesse J. Maris, Rebecca S. Leeds.] Cousin J. has been much 
gratified, with fine prospects. R. S. L. the same ; nor have 
the rest of us been indifferent spectators of the Creator's 
works, nor of the efforts of man. 

T. K. TO HIS WIFE. 

At Dr. Parker's, near Mt. Pleasant, Ohio, 

Ninth month 5th, 1836. 
Dear Wife :— I wrote to Rebecca from the summit of 
the Alleghany Mountain, where we slept on Fourth-day 
night. On Sixth-day we arrived at Pittsburg. On the same 
evening J. and I started for Sewickly ; lodged at a tavern ; 
and the next morning hired a conveyance, which took us to 
Benjamin Gilbert's. Second-day we returned to Pittsburg. 
Third-day went to Steuben ville. Fourth-day to Smithfield, 
to B. W. Ladd's ; and remained there until Sixth-day, when 



208 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1836. 



we came to this place. Dr. Parker's, where we make our home, 
is pleasantly situated, about half a mile from Mount Pleasant. 
At the Select Meeting, on Seventh-day, certificates and min- 
utes were produced for seven ministers, beside myself, viz. : 
Elizabeth Coggeshall, Phebe Field, of Scipio, Daniel Wood, 
Sarah Emlen, William Evans, William Pierson, belonging 
to Indiana Yearly Meeting, and Jeremiah Hubbard. John 
Meader arrived in the evening, having been unable to reach 
the meeting in time. Indeed, the Ohio River being too low 
at Pittsburg for steamboat navigation, and many travellers 
wishing to go west, has exposed most of us to difficulty and 
expense. 

This is a very pleasant country, so much changed since I 
was here twenty-eight years ago, that I can scarcely recog- 
nize anything I then saw. The morning meeting at Mount 
Pleasant was exceedingly large, very irregular in gathering, 
and, owing to the kind of persons who attended, very un- 
quiet. Yet some feelings of solemnity were spread over us. 
J. Hubbard and J. Meader had the public service. In the 
afternoon I attended at Short Creek Meeting-house. A small 
and quiet meeting, and, with the exception of a few words 
near the close, held in silence. Since coming into this State, 
I have mostly felt pretty well. 

In the Tenth month of this year, the Monthly Meeting of 
Philadelphia appointed a committee to visit such of their 
members as were not diligent in the attendance of religious 
meetings. Thomas Kite was one of that committee, which 
had much acceptable service. Its labors were of singular 
use to some, and for a time many were stirred up to greater 
zeal in assembling with their friends. 



1837.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 209 



T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER SUSANNA. 

Philadelphia, Twelfth month 9th, 1836. 
Dear Daughter ; — [After speaking of the postponement 
of a visit to her, and the reason for it]. Amongst these, the 
increasing indisposition and death of my friend, Othniel 
Alsop, may be included. He appeared to have the prevail- 
ing cold, attended with difficulty of breathing, and was con- 
fined a few weeks to his house. He rapidly grew w r orse, and 
at length his physicians believed his complicated complaints 
were, abscess of the lungs, aneurism of the heart, dropsy of 
the chest, and the same disease in the extremities. Nature 
sunk under these united attacks, and he deceased yester- 
day, about 1 o'clock p. m. He will be much missed in his 
family, and in the Northern District Monthly Meeting, as 
well as more extensively in religious society. 

T. K. TO e. s. F. 

Philadelphia, Third month 30th, 1837. 
Dear Friend : — Thy letter, giving an account of the last 
illness and death of my much respected and beloved friend, 
Philip Price, was very acceptable. It is a privilege to be 
with those who feel at such a solemn period the consolations 
of the Gospel of Christ. Nature shrinks from death ; and 
even to the pious it is a solemn thing. Samuel Emlen, emi- 
nently a disciple w T hom Jesus loved, said, on his approach to 
the close of life, " It is a serious thing to die ; the invisible 
world — how awful!" It is not principally the suffering at- 
tending the parting of soul and body, though that is often 
hard to bear, nor the separation from all we have loved, 
though that be trying to the affectionate feelings of our na- 
ture, but it is the thought of a state of fixedness, of appearing 



210 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1837. 



before that J udge, who knoweth the secrets of all hearts ; and 
who hath "set oar iniquities before Him, our secret sins in 
the light of his countenance." There is but one remedy — 
repentance towards God, and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. 
That faith which enables us to accept Him in all his offices, 
— to deny ourselves, — take up his cross and follow Him in 
the regeneration, — submitting to those baptisms by which He 
purges away our defilements, and makes us a holy people to 
Himself. These are they who have hope in their death, be- 
cause they trust in Him who hath conquered death, hell and 
the grave. Having witnessed such a death-bed, dear Eliza- 
beth, let it incite thee to count nothing too near to part with, 
in order that thou mayest be prepared to finish thy course 
with joy. 

We have met with a loss in the decease of dear Mary 
Elliott, who died on Second-day morning last, having left a 
good report behind her of her faith and faithfulness. She 
also enjoyed the consolations of the Gospel in her hour of 
need. Uncle John Letclrworth is very unwell. We fear 
his departure is not far distant. Our aged friend Edward 
Randolph's close is hourly looked for. Thus a stripping 
time is experienced ; and w e must, if our testimonies are to 
be supported, look to the younger ranks for a succession of 
standard bearers. May they submit to the power, that can 
alone prepare for the Lord's work. * * * 

At Yearly Meeting time Thomas Kite's house was gener- 
ally thronged with Friends ; and many religious opportuni- 
ties occurred at such seasons, beside instructive and animating 
conversation. I find some notes of one or two such conversa- 
tions and religious sittings. On Seventh-day the loth of 
Fourth month, 1837, Joseph Whitall being there at dinner, 



1837.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



211 



was largely engaged in pleasant, sociable conversation, all, 
however, having an instructive bearing. One anecdote he 
related was to this effect. A worthy Friend, who had 
been very useful in the church and family, by giving way 
to discouragement, became depressed in spirit, seemed to 
lose his Christian zeal, and sunk into a state of melancholy, 
out of which he did not appear to seek to be rescued. One 
morning he noticed one of his daughters looked unusually 
sad, and he inquired of her the cause. She was evidently 
embarrassed, and hesitated as if unwilling to tell him. But 
on his insisting, she at length said, that in her sleep the 
previous night she had dreamed that she had had an en- 
counter with the devil, who told her he had been trying in 
vain for many years to overcome her father, but that now 
he was giving way to melancholy, and he should certainly 
have him. Startled as if he had suddenly found himself on 
the brink of a precipice towards which he had been heed- 
lessly walking, the father exclaimed with awakened energy, 
" He shall have a hard struggle then." In earnestly seeking 
for strength where it alone can be found, the parent was 
enabled to shake off his gloom and despondency, and again 
through the mercy of a watchful Providence, to escape the 
snare of the devil. Joseph also related that when a young 
man, he travelled in New York State in company with 
Comfort Collins. She was then about 87 years old. He- 
supposed that having been so long faithful, she might have 
become so redeemed as to be released from temptation. She, 
however, told him she found it as needful to watch against 
the attacks of the devil as at any period of her life. 

In the evening of that day, Smith Upton, Sarah M. his 
wife, Sarah C. Hull, Isaac Hayes, his daughter Mary, and 
many other Friends, took tea with Thomas Kite. In the 



212 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1837. 



course of conversation, Sarah M. Upton gave a pleasant little 
anecdote of Thomas Shilletoe. He was travelling, perhaps 
somewhere in New York State, when a concern arose to visit 
some one, but who it was he did not know. His companion 
was in a hurry to be going on ; but Thomas said there was 
some one confined to their chamber in that neighborhood, to 
w r hom he must pay a visit. He added, that his companion 
might go on and leave him to attend to his apprehended 
duty, and he would get along as he could. On inquiring 
amongst Friends in the place, if there Avas any one there 
of that description, they mentioned a woman Friend who had 
been confined for several years to her chamber. Thomas 
after a pause said, " She is the one I want to see." He was 
taken to her house, and found her in her chamber, so wrapped 
up as to keep the fresh air, which might be admitted through 
the door, entirely from her. Close by her was a stand or 
small table, on which were a variety of different kinds of 
medicine, of which she was almost continually taking some, 
a sup from one, and anon from another cup. Thomas was 
soon dipped into her state, and told her, that her being con- 
fined there was all the work of the devil ; bid her put away 
her stand, lay aside all her medicines, and arouse herself. 
Pointing to the shovel and tongs in the corner, he said, " If 
those are not scoured occasionally, they will become rusty ; 
and thou hast become rusty ; and it is necessary thou shouldst 
be scoured." So forcibly, and with such a prevailing effect, 
did Thomas speak, that she was completely cured of all her 
imaginary ailments. She left her chamber, rode out the 
next day, and had continued in pretty good health up to 
the time of the narrative. 

After a time of social converse, in which several other in- 
teresting circumstances were related, silence fell upon the 



1837.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



213 



company assembled in Thomas Kite's parlor. Pretty soon, 
in allusion to the presence of his friend and fellow-laborer in 
the Gospel, Sarah M. Upton, Thomas Kite broke forth, " God 
who comforteth those who are cast down, hath comforted us 
by the coming of Titus." He said he had been comforted ; 
and endeavored to encourage Sarah to a faithful discharge 
of every apprehended duty. He said that though she might 
have come weeping, not conscious of bearing any precious 
seed, yet, if faithful, she would, doubtless, return rejoicing 
bearing her sheaves with her. He then addressed Sarah C. 
Hull, [widow of Henry], desiring her to trust in that Arm 
that had supported her in six troubles, and would not leave 
her in the seventh. He believed that the Lord who had 
drawn her to Himself in early life, had fixed the bounds of 
her habitation. Adding he had had great unity with her 
dear husband, whose praise was in all the churches, and who 
had now entered into everlasting rest. 

After Thomas had ceased speaking, silence rested awhile 
on the tendered company, until Sarah M. Upton commenced, 
" I can say, it is good for us to be here. I have labored un- 
der many discouragements, and was almost ready to query, 
whether it were not wrong that I had come. But I can now 
adopt the language, ' It is good for me that I am here.' " 
She spoke briefly, encouraging all to faithfulness, that they 
might be bound together in Christian fellowship. 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER SUSANNA. 

Lynn, (Mass.,) Fifth month 13th, 1837. 
Dear Susanna : — Yesterday, at an appointed meeting 
held at this place, thy uncle James [Kite] accomplished his 
marriage with his amiable friend [Lydia B. Rodman]. 
Many gaily dressed young women were present, attracted, 



214 MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1837. 



no doubt, by curiosity ; but their behavior in general was 
orderly. The Friends concerned spake audibly ; and the 
meeting was quite as satisfactory as could reasonably be ex- 
pected. .* * * We have been to Nahant and Salem, and 
have been favored with fine weather whilst travelling, though 
several storms have occurred whilst we were resting with our 
friends. The season is cold and backward. We have seen 
some very stony farms, and renewedly wondered how the 
farmers continue to live ; but we have been into one farming 
district where the land is good. It is Danvers, near Salem. 
* * It is now near 10 o'clock, and an easterly storm is 
setting in, and the rain has just commenced. From the door 
I can hear the roaring of the billows of the Atlantic, but a 
little eminence intervening, prevents the ocean being seen. 

Philadelphia, Fifth month 18th. After writing the above, 
my pen was laid aside, to be resumed at my own beloved 
home. On First-day we went to Salem, attended morning 
meeting, and returned to Lynn to afternoon meeting. * * 
On Second-day morning, we set out for Boston, so early, that 
we were in time for the morning train of cars w 7 hich start at 
7. We arrived in Providence before 10, and had six hours 
to devote to seeing the city, visiting the Boarding School, 
&c. We embarked in the steamboat "Rhode Island," join- 
ing the newly-married pair and Hannah Bassitt, who has 
borne her sister company to her new habitation. The clouds 
were gathering up for a storm, which fairly set in soon after 
we passed Newport, and our large and excellent boat was 
sadly tossed, affecting us with that unpleasant, but not com- 
monly dangerous complaint, sea-sickness. Thy mother and 
I were sick, and many others of our fellow-passengers ; but 
I had a pretty comfortable night's rest notwithstanding, for 
when in bed, I felt pretty much free from nausea. The tern- 



1837.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



215 



pest and darkness caused the vessel to be several times an- 
chored, and protracted our voyage, so that we barely reached 
New York in time to take the second morning boat, which 
leaves at 9 o'clock. We arrived at home about 5, on Third- 
day afternoon, having had cause gratefully to acknowledge 
the protection of that merciful Power, without whom not a 
sparrow falls to the ground. 

T. K. TO E. S. F. 

Philadelphia, Seventh month 24th, 1837. 
* * * If, however, I could say anything that would 
encourage thee to hold fast what thou hast attained, and to 
press forward towards greater degrees of resignation to the 
Divine will, and bearing the daily cross, I would willingly 
do it. The world, and all that engrosses the attention of the 
worldly-minded, is vanity. Solid satisfaction can only be 
found in a life of holiness. Be this, then, the great object in 
thy view, to stand approved in the Divine sight. The friend- 
ship of the pious, and many social comforts, our Heavenly 
Parent affords us, are to be duly prized, and ought to be re- 
ceived with thankful hearts. Yet, after all, but one thing is 
needful. It is so, because without it we can never enter the 
pearl gates. Part with everything that obstructs thy partici- 
pation in this all-essential, ever-enduring, that so it may be 
said of thee, as of one formerly, " She hath chosen that good 
part, which shall never be taken from her." 

T. K. TO HIS SON-IN-LAW, AARON SHARPLESS. 

Dear Aaron : — We feel much obliged by thy attention 
in sending us an account of thy uncle's [Benjamin Sharpless'] 
sickness. We wish to hear from time to time, how it fares 



216 



MEMOIB OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1837. 



with him, particularly should his disorder increase upon him. 
In the present reduced state, of your meeting, he would be 
much missed, should he be taken from you, and no less so by 
his own family. But we must leave all in his hands who 
disposeth of us and our affairs in perfect wisdom. Happy 
they who are habitually looking forward to the solemn period 
of giving an account of their stewardship, and are daily pre- 
paring, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, to give up 
their accounts with joy. Tell Susan that her friend Rachel 
Morris continues quite ill ; she has been removed to her 
mother's. Stephen is also ill at his own house. 

SARAH SCULL TO THOMAS KITE. 

Eighth month 10th, 1337. 

Dear Friexd : — Though I have been tardy in acknowl- 
edgment, yet I trust my heart has not been insensible of thy 
kindness in forwarding the books, and especially the feeling 
that prompted thy very acceptable brotherly salutation. I 
was pleased to learn that a visit, so particularly grateful to 
my feelings, afforded a comfortable, peaceful retrospect to 
thy own mind. There was truly a precious serenity attend- 
ing it, and a covering, not at our command. How very de- 
sirable, even in our intercourse with each other, to witness 
something like a seal of Divine approbation. Oh ! it is an 
inestimable privilege thus to mingle together, and partake 
from a source whence springs some of the purest enjoyments 
which await us below, the comfort and benefit that flows 
from true Christian fellowship, through the influence of his 
Spirit, which unites in near feeling, the very child in experi- 
ence, to the strong man in Christ. 

Ah ! my dear friend, I do feel while I am writing, that 
there is abundant cause for humble, heartfelt gratitude to the 



1837.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



217 



merciful Disposer of events, who, though it has pleased Him 
to take away my dearest earthly treasure and delight, has not 
entirely cut off the consolations which arise from Christian 
friendship. It is, indeed, through his unmerited goodness, 
that I am permitted to enjoy the belief, that there are those 
left who care for my soul, and pray for its redemption. These 
are comfortable considerations, under any circumstances, but 
particularly so, when the spirit is sadly musing on the re- 
moval of faithful, devoted laborers, under a sense of its own 
shortcomings and weakness. 

I must just mention, as to one interested in the proceedings 
of the Church, wherever situated, and concerning which, I 
believe, we had some conversation when together, that at our 
last Monthly Meeting, an appointment was made, if way 
should open, to select from men's meeting some suitable 
Friend to fill the station of elder. This, at all times, and in 
all places, a very important movement, appears to me, in the 
reduced state of that meeting, to involve unusually serious 
and weighty deliberation. Oh, how needful is it, both for 
the honor of Truth, and the spiritual advantage of the indi- 
vidual who may be chosen, that the minds of the committee 
be clothed with heavenly wisdom. 

I should be glad sometimes to have thy company at our 
little meeting, but, nevertheless, desire to be content with the 
portion afforded us, and endeavor to rest satisfied under the 
comfortable persuasion, that however widely separated, there 
is, or may be, a communion of spirit, and that those qualified 
to feel and pray for such as sit in lonely places, may, through 
the blessing of our Holy Head and compassionate High Priest, 
availingly help us. Whilst I am sensible that an individual 
and living engagement of heart must be experienced, if ever 
any spiritual benefit is enjoyed from assembling together for 
15 



218 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1837. 



Divine worship, I do also earnestly crave the continued in- 
tercession of those who travail in soul for the welfare of Zion. 

In the Eleventh month, Thomas Kite paid a religious 
visit to the meetings composing Cain and Western Quarterly 
Meetings. Of this journey he kept a brief account. 

Eleventh month 7th, Third-day. " Left home ; a very un- 
pleasant morning. In the course of a few hours the wind 
began to rise, causing much dust, so that it was quite trying. 
I stopped at Robert Garrett's to dine ; then went to West- 
town. After remaining a short time, passed on to Aaron 
Sharpless's. Found them all as well as usual, unless A. 
Greeves is a little weaker. 

Fourth-day. I rose early, and, after breakfast, set off over 
the hills to Cain ; a delightful morning, and fine prospects. 
Attended [Bradford] Monthly Meeting. In the first meet- 
ing the testimony was to the character of the true Church, 
and its living members, from the passage in Revelations, 6 1, 
John, saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down from 
God, out of heaven,' &c. About forty men and lads attended ; 
several Friends being absent. Dined at Richard Pirn's, and 
went on to Jabez Jenkins' to lodge. 

Fifth-day. Walked to William Trimble's ; thence went 
to Uwchlan Monthly Meeting. From the language, ' Fear 
not, little flock, it is your Heavenly Father's good pleasure 
to give you the kingdom,' it was endeavored to show the na- 
ture of Christ's kingdom, and who they are who are entitled 
to that gracious declaration, with various cautions and warn- 
ings to the worldly-minded, and encouragement to the mourn- 
ers in Zion. About twenty persons in the meeting for busi- 
ness. Things appear, amongst the members of this meeting, 



1837.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



219 



in a declining state. Dined at Mordecai Larkin's, and lodged 
at Jesse Meredith's. 

Sixth-day. Rose early and started for Ephraim Scarlett's 
at Robeson. Attended Monthly Meeting. The subject 
spoken to was, the impossibility of attaining settlement of 
mind, and certainty in religion, on any other ground than 
that of immediate Divine revelation, from the question of 
Christ to his disciples, and their answer, ' Whom do men say 
that I, the son of man, am ?' &c. The danger of a formal, 
lifeless, traditional profession of religion, was spoken to ; and 
the language of affectionate entreaty addressed to the visited 
children, encouraging them to abide under the Power that 
can enable, from living experience, to say, ' Thou art the 
Christ, the Son of the living God !' &c. Lodged at Ephraim 
Scarlett's. 

Seventh-day. Rode to Lampeter, and put up at Hannah 
Gibbons'. First-day, Eleventh month 12th, attended Lam- 
peter Meeting, and treated on the necessity of manifesting 
in our lives and conversation, the fruits of true religion, thus 
manifesting a preparation for the life to come, &c. Rode to 
Ferree Brinton's, with Abraham Gibbons for pilot. 

Second-day. Rode to Bart, and attended an appointed 
meeting. A. G. still with us. I apprehend this to have 
been the most favored meeting I. have been at. The sub- 
jects spoken to were, the wickedness of man and the mercy 
of God ; the state of man in paradise, — his apostacy, — its 
sorrowful effects, — the general condition of man in a state of 
alienation from God,— the means of recovery by Jesus Christ, 
— the necessity of the new birth, and of leading self-denying, 
holy lives ; addresses to various classes of our fellow mem- 
bers, with something in particular for those not of our So- 
ciety, divers being present who did not profess with us 



220 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1837. 



Called in the afternoon to see William Kirkwood, who has 
settled within the limits of this meeting. Went to Robert 
Moore's to lodge. A, G. here left us, and William Baily 
took charge of us. He lives at present with his son-in-law, 
Robert Moore. 

Third-day. Attended Sadsbury Meeting. A more labori- 
ous time ; yet was strengthened to advocate the cause of 
Truth. Went to Isaac Phillips' to lodge, and had a com- 
fortable, religious opportunity with this interesting family. 
Fourth-day, called pleasantly at William Coale's, on our way 
to East Sadsbury Meeting. [This meeting] was to my com- 
fort, dear Hannah Gibbons being present, and participating 
in the public labor. My concern was to open the spiritual 
nature of the Gospel dispensation, and the necessity of re- 
newed qualification from the immediate operation of the 
Holy Spirit, to discharge our varied religious obligations. 
Dined at James Smith's, and came in the evening to Joshua 
Edge's, at Coatesville, to lodge. 

Fifth-day, to Downingtown, to Select Quarterly Meeting. 
Dined and lodged at George G. Ashbridge's. 

From this place T. Kite wrote to his wife thus : 

Eleventh month 16th. I have been closely engaged, body 
and mind, but have had the sympathy of some feeling, valu- 
able Friends, which has been consoling ; particularly Hannah 
Gibbons. In company with her, I visited Charity Baldwin, 
who is now confined to her chamber by indisposition, and is 
in her eighty-fourth year. She is in a comfortable state of 
mind. 

Sixth-day. At Quarterly Meeting at Cain. I suppose 
the largest I have attended there since the separation. 



1837.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 221 



Though there are some valuable Friends, the state of things 
is rather low. Went to uncle Isaac Hayes' [in East Fallow- 
field] to lodge. 

Seventh-day, 18th. After a favored opportunity with the 
united families of my uncle and cousin [Isaac], in which 
Isaac, Jr.'s, mother-in-law, Hannah Harlan, was present, went 
to an appointed meeting. The meeting was small, and it was 
a low time. I had very little to say, but a Friend from a 
neighboring meeting spoke twice. Went to Samuel Swayne's 
to lodge. 

First-day, 19th. Had opportunities with Samuel Swayne's 
wife and daughter, both remarkably afflicted women. Went 
to London Grove Meeting. Very small. A neat, new 
meeting house has been built. Took tea with Edith Edge, 
and lodged at Isaac Pusey's. 

Second-day, 20th. At an appointed meeting at West 
Grove. More encouraging than the two last. I was largely 
opened, and the opportunity ended well. Went to Joshua 
Sharpless'. 

Third-day, 21st. A favored appointed meeting at London 
Britain, in which I was helped to open the ground and 
nature of Christian redemption ; to treat of the mercy of the 
Most High to his fallen creatures in different ages, after the 
fall of our first parents; at the deluge — when Israel was 
captive in Egypt — at the birth of Christ, &c, and to speak 
to various states with openness and freedom. The meeting 
ended with prayer and praise. Dined at Eli Thompson's, 
and lodged again at Joshua Sharpless'. 

Fourth-day, 22nd. After a religious opportunity, set off 
for New Garden, to an appointed meeting, which was held to 
a good degree of satisfaction. The nature of the true Church, 
and the qualification for membership, was set forth, and 



222 MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1837. 



various states addressed. Dined at Daniel Thompson's ; 
visited W. Hicks, and went to Joseph Chambers' to lodge. 

Fifth-day, 23rd. After a religious opportunity, set off for 
London Grove, calling at Benjamin Hoopes', whose wife is 
indisposed. Had a time of retirement with her and some 
other members of the family, in which the language of en- 
couragement was handed forth. Then proceeded to the 
Select Quarterly Meeting. There met with Hannah War- 
rington, Jr., and company. Dined at Samuel Swayne's, and 
lodge at Isaac Pusey's." 

In a letter written to his wife from this place, he says, " I 
ought to have mentioned that William Cole joined me at 
Fallowfield, and continues with me. 

Sixth-day, 24th. Attended Quarterly Meeting. A favored, 
solemn meeting. Awakening calls were extended to the 
youth and others. Several Friends engaged in labor in the 
meeting for discipline, towards the close of which prayer and 
thanksgiving were offered up to the Author of all our mercies. 
In the morning a religious opportunity in E. Edge's family. 
I dined at Isaac Pusey's, and lodged at Thomas Lamborn's. 
Walked to his married son's house in the evening, and had 
a sitting. 

Seventh-day, 25th. After a religious opportunity in the 
family where we lodged, proceeded to Thomas Jackson's, 
calling at Enoch Lewis'. 'Walked over to T. Walker's. 
Dined at T. Jackson's, went to meeting [at Okesson] at two 
o'clock. It was quite a satisfactory opportunity, in which 
the invitations of the Gospel were freely extended to a serious 
auditory. Towards the close a solemn covering spread over 
the assembly. Lodged at Evan Phillip's. 

First-day, 26th. Attended Kennett Meeting. Had the 
most close and alarming testimony I have delivered in the 



1837.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 223 



present journey. The principal Scripture passage was the 
first Psalm, ' Blessed is the man that walketh not in the 
counsel of the ungodly/ &c. I believe I was helped to re- 
lieve myself to the satisfaction of the livingly exercised. 
There appeared to be those present who have little feeling of 
right exercise, whose lukewarmness and worldly-mindedness 
make the labor hard for the burthen bearers. Dined at 
Edward Temple's ; paid a hasty visit at D. Temple's, and 
went to Aaron Sharpless' to lodge. My prospect there clos- 
ing ; parted with Wm. Coale at Kennett, who expected to 
reach home to night. He has been a kind, sympathizing 
and agreeable companion." 

• T. K. TO HIS WIFE. 

Westtown School, Twelfth month 26th, 1837. 
My Dear : — Thou wilt probably have heard of the decease 
of our dear nieue, Abigail Greeves, before this letter reaches 
thee. She had been perceptibly growing weaker for several 
days, and on Seventh-day afternoon I took sister Lydia 
Sharpless to see her. I returned in the morning and attended 
both the meetings here on First-day, and went again to 
Aaron's in the evening, designing to return to the school on 
Second-day morning ; but our niece was so low that I did not 
feel willing to leave her, and accordingly waited until the 
close, which took place at twenty minutes before two, in the 
afternoon. When awake, she appeared sensible to the last. 
Her sufferings were great, particularly the last night but two, 
I think it was, when they appeared to be agonizing. She 
had been, during most of the early period of her illness, much 
shut up from communicating her feelings on religious sub- 
jects ; but towards the last, her mouth was opened, not only 
in supplication at different times, but also in remarks in re- 



224 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1837. 



lation to her circumstances, manifesting that her dependence 
was on the Lord alone. Perhaps two hours before her de- 
parture, she appeared in prayer, commending her spirit to 
her Saviour's care. Nearly the last articulate words were 
to this effect, " I believe I am almost gone !" At the period 
when the spirit appeared to leave its clay tenement, a sweet 
and heavenly solemnity seemed to spread over our minds 
who were privileged to be present, and thanksgivings were 
raised in our hearts to Him whose mercy is from everlasting 
to everlasting, and his righteousness to children's children, 
of those who remember his commandments to do them, in 
that we could believe her immortal part was gathered to 
join with the redeemed of all generations in worshipping 
before the Throne of the Most High in a state of endless 
felicity. May surviving relations experience renewed prepa- 
ration of heart for the Master's service, and through increas- 
ing dedication, not only serve him in their generation, but 
receive at last the end of their faith and righteousness, even 
the salvation of their souls. The interment is to be on Fourth- 
day afternoon, at three o'clock. Such of you as may come 
out in the morning car, will, I suppose, meet with a convey- 
ance at West Chester. 



1838.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 225 



CHAPTER XIL-1838. 

LETTERS — DEATH OF JOHN JUSTICE — DEATH OF BENJAMIN 
KITE — MARRIAGE OF WILLIAM KITE AND MARY F. CLEM- 
ENT — VISIT TO CONCORD QUARTERLY MEETING — MEMO- 
RANDA. 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER SUSANNA. 

Philadelphia, Second month 11th, 1838. 
Dear Daughter: — The poet Sowper, somewhere in the 
" Task/' has this reflection : 

" How various his employments, whom the world 
Deems idle/' 

and lest that portion of the world which occupies a certain 
farm in East Bradford, should deem me idle, and one of 
them, because I have delayed my acknowledgement of the 
receipt of a very kind and acceptable letter, I will endeavor 
to give a small account of my employments for a portion of 
the preceding two or three weeks. 

It had been concluded that the scholars in our Select 
School, after a careful review of their studies, should undergo 
an examination in the presence of the committee. That for 
the boys commenced on Fifth-day, the 25th of last month. 
Our morning meeting prevented my being there, but in the 
afternoon, and on Sixth-day morning, I was present. Sixth- 
day afternoon I had to attend a meeting of the Overseers of 
the Public Schools ; *but on Seventh-day I was at the con- 
clusion of the examination of the boys. I was, as usual, at 
three meetings on First-day ; and commenced with attendance 
on the girls' examination on Second-day. It continued until 
Sixth-day evening, excepting that the girls, as usual, attended 



226 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1838. 



our Week-day Meeting. I was there morning and afternoon, 
until the conclusion, when a satisfactory religious opportunity 
was had with the girls. In both schools the proficiency of 
the scholars gave just pleasure to the committee. On Seventh- 
day was our Select Quarterly Meeting ; and in the afternoon 
I had to prepare the business of the approaching meeting, 
by digesting the Answers to the queries, reports on spirituous 
liquors, &c. On First-day, three meetings again. On Second- 
day w T e had a long and exercising meeting, in w T hich we had 
the company of Joseph John Gurney. On Fourth-day I was 
at the Western Meeting in the morning, and at a meeting of 
the committee on teachers for Westtown School, in the after- 
noon. On Fifth-day I was at Abington Quarterly Meeting, 
held at Germantown, where I saw Samuel Rhoads, Sarah 
Emlen and Hannah Rhoads, of your Quarterly Meeting, 
and Elizabeth Pitfield, of our own, besides a number of other 
Friends. It was a good meeting. It is perhaps needless to 
pursue the sketch further, but thou canst readily fill up these 
outlines — with copying the minutes of the Quarterly Meet- 
ing, occupying about eight pages — purchasing goods for 
Westtown — occasionally marketing — buying groceries — some 
reading — some resting, &c, and having done so, I think thou 
wilt frame an excuse for any apparent neglect. 

Joseph John is engaged in visiting the families of the 
Northern District Monthly Meeting. He has paid us a short 
visit, and seems affable and conversable. His voice resembles 
that of Hannah C. Backhouse, who is, I believe, his first 
cousin. I should take him to be six fe'et high, and well pro- 
portioned. He looks like John Bullock ; his age is about 
forty-eight, and he is very gray for his time of life. 



Thomas Kite, in the early part of the Third Month, this 



1838.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 227 



year, paid a religious visit to the meetings composing Salem 
Quarterly Meeting. 

In the Fifth Month he was again appointed by the Quar- 
terly Meeting of Philadelphia, one of a committee to visit 
Muncy Monthly Meeting. Pretty soon after the Quarterly 
Meeting, the committee, filling two carriages, started to fulfil 
their appointment ; they consisted of George Williams, Thomas 
Kite, William Evans, Joseph Snowden, Sarah Hillman, 
H. Eegina Shober, Elizabeth C. Mason and Jane Clark. 

T. K. TO HIS WIFE. 

Muncy, Fifth month 20th, 1838. 
My Dear Wife: — I am comfortably seated in Mercy 
Ellis' back parlor, pen in hand, prepared to communicate a 
a brief account of our proceedings. We started, as thou 
mayest remember on Seventh-day week [12th]. That night 
we reached Pottstown. On First-day morning Wm. Evans 
and company went to Exeter Meeting, exchanging Sarah 
Hillman, of our band, for R. Shober, of theirs. The rest of 
us attended Pottstown Meeting, which was small, but meas- 
urably owned by the Good Master. We dined at Sarah 
Potts', and went on to John Lee's in the afternoon, rejoining 
our company. One of the horses attached to Wm. Evans' 
carriage having misbehaved on various occasions, and caused 
some alarm, was here exchanged for a safer one. On Second- 
day we travelled on to Orwigsburg, and lodged. On Third- 
day we reached Catawissa. I believe it was this day, walking 
up a mountain, I heard the warning of a rattlesnake, and 
looking round, beheld him coiled near me. I quickly stepped 
out of his way. On Fourth-day we reached David Masters', 
at Fishing Creek. On Fifth-day called at Andrew Eves', 
and proceeded to their Preparative Meeting at Greenwood, 



228 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1838. 



held in the new house, with which we were much pleased. 
Here we separated for dinner, our party going to Thomas 
Mendenhall's, the other to Josiah Haycock's. We went 
again to A. Eves', and lodged. On Sixth-day started for 
Muncy, arriving at Jacob Haines' to dinner, and proceeding 
in the afternoon to Mercy Ellis' hospitable mansion. It was 
settled for Wm. Evans, Joseph Snowden, Elizabeth C. Mason 
and Eegina Shober to go to the Elklands ; and they started on 
Seventh-day morning, accompanied by our guide and friend, 
Henry Ecroyd. We who remained, occupied the day in visit- 
ing some families, and in taking opportunities with some wdio 
still hand ardent spirits to their workmen. To day we have 
been at meeting here, which held until about half-past one, and 
was satisfactory. We have continued also similar engagements 
to those of yesterday; some of the opportunities both days being 
to our comfort. We propose going to Pine Grove to morrow, 
and have a meeting with those under our name, who reside 
there, and return in the evening ; when, we hope, our Friends 
will have accomplished their visit to the Elklands, and meet 
us. On Third-day w 7 e propose going to Fishing Creek, in 
order to attend the Monthly Meeting to be held on Fourth- 
day at Greemvood ; after which, our prospect is to attend 
Exeter Monthly Meeting on the following week. 

Amongst the families visited is that in which Elizabeth 
Kately resides, who seems green and lively at the advanced 
age of ninety-five, going up and down stairs without assist- 
ance. With love to my dear parents, to thyself and children, 
I am thy truly attached husband. 

Rebecca Kite, Jr., having gone to Westtow^n as teacher, 
her father thus writes to her : 



1838.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



229 



Philadelphia, Sixth month 22nd, 1838. 

Dear Daughter : — Thy letter, which came by the stage 
on Fifth-day, was very acceptable. It w r ould seem by the 
information contained in it, very doubtful whether our friend 
Sarah Ann Dillon, will be raised from her bed of sickness. 
I wished to be informed by every stage of the progress of her 
illness, feeling a deep interest in her welfare, and strong de- 
sires that when her w T arfare is accomplished, she may be 
found amongst those who not only have come out of great 
tribulation, but have also washed their robes and made them 
white in the blood of the Lamb. 

Information has been received that our dear friend, Jacob 
Green, was prevented from attending Dublin Yearly Meeting 
by a severe illness. Of course his concern to visit this 
country lies over until next year. We hear he is recovering 
from his sickness. It would have been very pleasant to some 
of us again to have seen him in this land ; but let us not 
forget that the Lord can work without instruments when He 
sees meet, and can raise up helpers to the Truth from very 
unexpected quarters. May we all look to Him, and cease 
from a dependence on man, and keep to inward exercise, and 
it may yet please the Great Head of the Church to revive 
his work in the midst of the years, and to turn our captivity 
as the streams of the south. 

We hear that our valued Friend, John Barclay, is deceased, 
which is no doubt felt as a great loss by faithful Friends in 
England. I do not seem to have much to communicate, it 
being a season of depression, from various causes, with me ; 
but whether mourning over my weaknesses, or lifting up my 
head in hope, I can truly say, in all states, my desire for my 
children is, that their inheritance may be in the everlasting 
Truth, and, that having served the Lord in their generation, 



230 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1838. 



their portion may be forever with the ransomed and re- 
deemed. So wisheth, so prayeth, for thee, my dear Rebecca, 
thy affectionate father. 

Sixth month 19th. To the same. "I trust that thou 
wilt not only be usefully employed in the school, but that the 
consciousness of being for the present in thy proper place, 
will produce heartfelt contentment. Thy advancement in the 
way everlasting is the dearest wish I have for thee ; and I 
feel a secret hope that even this all-important object may be 
promoted in some degree by this little surrender of thy own 
will, through the tender mercy of Him who can cause all 
things to work together for good to them that love Him." 

T. K. TO E. S. F. 

Philadelphia, Sixth month 23rd ; 1838. 

Dear Friend : — * * * My Rebecca has gone to 
Westtown to fill for a short time the place of Sarah Ann 
Dillon, as writing teacher. Sarah Ann is very ill, and her 
recovery doubtful. Many are the admonitions we get, not 
to postpone the great work of preparation for the life to come, 
to a sick bed. I mean not to insinuate this has been her 
case. I believe she was when in health, a religiously inclined 
young woman ; but I wish to encourage thee to act up to thy 
own convictions, steadily bearing the cross, and waiting every 
day for power from on high " to crucify the flesh with its 
affections and lusts." We must be born again of incorrup- 
tible Seed and Word, which liveth and abideth. Short of this 
there is no true settlement of mind, no true peace, no true joy, 
no entrance into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and 
Saviour Jesus Christ. * * * [After alluding to the post- 
ponement of Jacob Green's visit as already mentioned, he 



1838.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 231 



continues]. As regards himself at present, the will is taken 
for the deed. Many would have rejoiced at seeing him, who 
have had evidence that he is an anointed and baptizing 
minister of Christ. But if our minds are happily turned to, 
and centered on the great Minister of the Sanctuary, we shall 
not so much regret the loss of instrumental help. The Lord 
is able, from very unexpected quarters, to raise up helpers 
to the Truth ; of the stones of the street to make children of 
Abraham, and to cause the dust of Zion to praise Him, yea, 
out of the mouths of babes and sucklings to perfect praise. 

Also, we hear that John Barclay is deceased. An excel- 
lent writer, a minister of the Gospel, descended from Robert 
Barclay, the Apologist. It seems natural to feel the loss of 
such, in a low time ; yet we know the Lord remain eth the 
foundation of the righteous generations. With sincere de- 
sires for thy preservation from evil, and for thy growth in 
sincere heartfelt, vital religion, I remain thy friend. 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

Seventh month 20th, 1838. 
Last First-day morning I found my mind drawn to attend, 
the North Meeting. Very unexpectedly I found our friend 
John Justice there. I had heard a few days before that he 
was sick and like to die ; and indeed he seemed as to his 
outward man, in a very poor way. But he was evidently 
raised up in the exercise of the Gospel Ministry, to the com- 
fort of some who are bound in heart to the ancient testimony 
of the everlasting Truth. I think he will not continue in 
this mutable state long.* 

*See "The Last Days of John Justice" in " The Friend," 1838. 



232 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1838. 



T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

Seventh month 31st, 1838. 
The funeral of our relative, Mary Phipps, took place 
yesterday. There was less difficulty with the body than was 
anticipated. Notwithstanding its great size and weight, it 
was removed down stairs, without much trouble, by six men. 
On Seventh-day night thy grandfather rose from his bed to 
look at his watch, and being taken with a vertigo, fell against 
the corner of a bureau, and hurt his knee — the neighborhood 
of his hip — and one of his hands. He lies in bed, and is 
unable to help himself ; neither can he be moved by others 
without much suffering. We hope the principal injury is a 
strain, that will be relieved. I am not sure whether I men- 
tioned meeting our friend John Justice at the North Meeting. 
I did so last First-day, two weeks. His testimony was re- 
markable, but he seemed very feeble. We hear he got home ; 
was at his own meeting on the following First-day, and last 
Sixth or Seventh-day departed this life, rather suddenly at 
last, though he had been for some time unwell. 

From T. K.'s Diary. " On the 16th of the Ninth month, 
1838, my father died, having attained the age of eighty-four 
years and eight months. He resided in my family for seve- 
ral years previous to his death. He was confined to the 
house for a few weeks, in consequence of a fall received in 
his chamber ; prostration of strength ensued, and he departed 
this life with little apparent bodily suffering. His love to 
the Truth continued unabated to the last, and his end was 
peace." 

Amongst T. K/s papers the following was found. 
" Last illness of Benjamin Kite. Our father deceased 
Ninth month 16th, 1838, in the eighty-fifth year of his age. 



1838.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



233 



The failure of memory, incident to an advanced period of 
life, had been for sometime perceptible in him ; and his 
bodily power weakened ; yet he was generally able to attend 
religious meetings. In those for discipline he continued to 
take a deep interest, and especially so in our late Yearly 
Meeting ; in those for worship he retained a lively frame of 
spirit. At no period wdthin our remembrance- had it been 
otherwise ; but w T e thought it remarkable, that when age had 
in some measure subdued his natural powers, not the least 
drowsiness on these occasions was apparent in him. He was 
an example of a fervent, living worshipper to the last. As 
a further evidence that his religious sensibility was unim- 
paired, we often took notice, that in reading aloud any com- 
position in which the character and offices of our Holy Re- 
deemer were set forth in appropriate terms, he frequently 
became so much affected as scarcely to be able to proceed. 
He appeared to think his days' work accomplished, and to 
be quietly waiting for his dismission. 

On the morning of Seventh month 28th, he fell in his 
chamber, and straining the muscles of one side, he was after- 
wards entirely confined to his bed. Loss of appetite ensued, 
and weakness gradually increased. 

Eighth month 11th, he remarked, *' It has seemed to me 
for several days, as if the Almighty would take me in this 
way ; and I can say Thy will be done on earth as it is in 
heaven ! That is my regular feeling.' To two of his nieces 
he observed, ' I am gradually going down to the grave. 7 
Adverting to his close in a conversation with a grand-son, he 
said, ' There is nothing in my way.' 

On the 14th he repeated this portion of one of the Psalms, 
' Let God arise, let his enemies be scattered, and let them 
that hate Him flee before Him.' 
16 



234 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1838. 



Though depression of feeling had been previously but 
little perceived, yet on the 19th he said he felt tried, and 
seemed to be passing through much conflict of mind. This 
day he was visited by a ministering Friend, who addressed 
him in the language of encouragement, reviving this portion 
of scrij3ture, ' Though I walk through the valley of the shadow 
of death, I .will fear no evil, for thou art with me ; thy rod 
and thy staff they comfort me.' This interview appeared to 
be consoling to him. On the 24th, another Friend in the 
ministry, calling on him, remarked that few had passed a 
more regular and innocent life than he, but that this would 
not do to depend on. When the Friend withdrew, he said : 
' Oh, no ! it is all of mercy ; I have nothing else to depend 
upon.' 

He frequently repeated this, as well as other comfortable 
passages of scripture, ' The Lord hear thee in the day of 
trouble; the name of the God of Jacob defend thee; send 
thee help from his sanctuary and strengthen thee out of Zion ; 
the Lord fulfil all thy petitions.' On one occasion, as some 
of the younger members of the family were about leaving 
the house to attend a meeting for worship, he said, ' May the 
God of purity be with you that go, and give you good 
thoughts.' 

On Mnth month 11th, he said to one of his sons, ' Though 
I enter the valley of the shadow of death with awe, yet it is 
not with fear.' Thus, preserved in humble, patient waiting, 
he gradually declined, until the 16th, when he gently passed 
away, without apparent suffering, we trust, to the everlasting 
inheritance."* 

William Kite, with the approbation of his parents, was 
* See obituary in " The Friend' 7 of this date. 



1838.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



235 



married on the 8th of Eleventh month, 1838, to Mary F. 
Clement. 

In the Eleventh month, Thomas Kite attended the meet- 
ings of Concord Quarterly Meeting. In a letter to his wife, 
dated East Bradford, Eleventh month 17th, after giving 
information of meetings at Dfarby, Goshen, Willistown and 
Birmingham, he thus concludes : " I have found occasion in 
these several meetings to endeavor to advocate the cause of 
Truth, and in some more private opportunities to labor as 
ability has been afforded. Yet, on the whole I have been 
in a rather low condition ; but am content, if I may but be 
preserved in my proper allotment, doing no harm, and re- 
ceiving the answer of peace. I feel the need of watching 
unto prayer, and desire that with me patience may have its 
perfect work." 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER SUSANNA. 

Philadelphia, Twelfth month 28th, 1838. 
Dear Daughter : — I thought I must write a few hasty 
lines, to express our sympathy with you in your anxious cares 
about your suffering babe. We know something of parental 
feelings in such a case. May you be preserved in a state of 
resignation to Divine disposal, and having done all you can 
to alleviate its sufferings, commit the event to Him who doeth 
all things well. * * * Thy uncle James seems much 
better, which is quite a relief to our minds. We have had 
Thomas and Elizabeth Robson to tea. He is a very pleasant 
old Friend. They were yesterday at our Monthly Meeting; 
and were to set off this morning for the sea shore, in pur- 
suance of a prospect of visiting the meetings in New Jersey. 



236 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1838. 



T. K. TO MARTHA JEFFERIS. 

Philadelphia, Twelfth month 28th, 1838. 
* * * Please give my love to cousin Ann. I cannot 
put into words, nor need I, all the affectionate longings I 
feel for her. She is one of the Lord's visited ones, and through 
his aid has achieved some victories over the enemies of 
her peace ; but more conflicts are to be known, more hardness 
as a good soldier of Jesus Christ is to be endured, before 
the day will be fully enjoyed, which the evangelical prophet 
speaks of, and which I fully believe our heavenly Parent 
designs she should experience ; " in that day shall this song 
be sung in the land of Judah, we have a strong city, salvation 
hath God appointed for walls and bulwarks." I desire her 
encouragement. I wish her to look forward, not at the ex- 
ample of her fellow travellers towards the Holy City, but at 
the pure and perfect example of Him who wore the seamless 
garment, and was holy, harmless, undefiled, and separate 
from sinners ; that so through his power strengthening her, 
she may stand in her allotment, clothed with the whole armor 
of light. 

About the close of 1838, Thomas Kite, having made a 
brief recital of the various religious engagements he had ful- 
filled, with minutes of his meeting, adds : 

" In addition to these, I have several times been under 
appointment from the Quarterly, and once from the Yearly 
Meeting, to visit Monthly and Particular Meetings ; besides 
which, I have often attended neighboring Quarterly, Monthly 
and other Meetings, as way has opened for it. In these 
services I have had varied experiences ; sometimes wading 
under deep discouragements ; at other seasons humbly re- 



1839.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



237 



joicing in the renewed exten clings of holy help ; for the most 
part earnestly desiring to be preserved in humility, love and 
the fear of the Lord. This is the feeling which at present 
covers my spirit ; and the prayer arises in the retrospect, that 
I may be enabled to fill up my allotted portion of baptism 
and suffering, for the sake of my dear Redeemer, as at length 
to finish my course with joy, and the ministry I have received 
of the Lord Jesus, to testify the Gospel of the grace of God. 

In the year 1835 I was appointed clerk of the Quarterly 
Meeting of Philadelphia, in which service I yet continue. 
I have endeavored, with Divine assistance, to fulfil the duties 
of this station, under a sense of their weight and importance." 



CHAPTER XIII.— 1839. 

LETTERS — JONATHAN EVAN'S DEATH — THOMAS EVANS AP- 
PEARS AS A MINISTER — DIARY THOMAS KITE, JR., 

REMOVES TO CINCINNATI — LETTERS. 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

Philadelphia, Second month 8th, 1839. 
Dear Rebecca : — * * A prince and a great man 
has fallen this day in Israel. Jonathan Evans departed this 
life this morning, in great tranquillity, in apparently the full 
possession of his mental powers, and without giving evidence 
of bodily suffering. Not a sigh was heard, not a muscle 
observed to quiver as the spirit took its flight. At the com- 
mencement of his illness, wdiich he believed would prove his 
last, he underwent some conflict of mind, but it w r as soon 



238 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1839. 



over, and he felt quiet and composed, and the Everlasting 
Arm seemed underneath to the last. The funeral is to be on 
Second-day morning. 

T. K. TO AARON SHARPLESS. 

Second month 8th. 
Dear Son :■ — * * * We have had quite a pleasant 
visit from Daniel Wheeler ; he seemed quite at liberty for 
social converse, and his extensive travels and remarkable life 
furnished abundant topics of interest. He has had a cold 
which has confined him to the house for a few days past. It 
is likely Rebecca mentioned that T. and E. Robson, as well 
as D. Wheeler, were at our Quarterly Meeting. It was large 
and interesting. Thy mother and I hope to make you a visit 
after our [next] Monthly Meeting; perhaps we may take 
Chichester and Concord in our way. We quite wish to be 
with you, but circumstances have induced us to postpone it 
for the present. 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

Second month 16th. I was at the funeral of our Friend 
Jonathan Evans, and was invited into the room where the 
family were assembled, where also Ezra Comfort, Christopher 
Healy, Elizabeth Pith eld and Sarah Hillman were. A very 
precious solemnity prevailed, and some brief testimonies were 
delivered to magnify that grace which made our departed 
Friend what he was, a firm and upright pillar in the Church. 
The first-named Friend particularly addressed his grand- 
children. At the grave his son Thomas spoke a few words. 
The attendance of Friends was very large, some from the 
country, and a number of those who had* separated from us. 
Daniel Wheeler has taken tea and spent an evening at our 



1839.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



239 



Friend's late residence, in company with a number of his 
children. Our Friend Abigail Nicholson deceased on Third- 
day night, and the funeral is this day. On Fourth-day 
morning I went to Woodbury, to attend Salem Quarterly 
Meeting. I found T. and E. Robson at Joseph Whitall's. 
It was a comfortable meeting. In the meeting preceding 
that for business on Fifth-day, the Wing of Ancient Good- 
ness was memorably spread over us. I dined at W. Tatum's ; 
the cars started before I had finished [my dinner]. Being 
thus left, I went to George Mickle's, and spent the evening 
with some very interesting Friends. Amongst these were 
John E. Sheppard and his sister Mary, his mother and his 
cousin Richard Sheppard and his wife Amy, who is Elizabeth 
Evan's sister. Mary Mickle, the wife of George, has quite 
lately been acknowledged as a minister, and is a tender, 
sweet-spirited Friend. She appeared in the morning [in the 
ministry] amongst us, which satisfied me with my detention 
for the night. I had a passage to Camden with T. War- 
rington, who had been at the Quarterly Meeting. * * * 

From T. K.'s Diary. "Third month 5th. Calling on 
Anne S., wife of Robert Pearsall, who appears to be afflicted 
with pulmonary consumption, I was drawn into sympathy 
with her, and a short testimony to Christ Jesus, the Light of 
the World, and the life of men, was delivered. She was en- 
couraged to submit to his power, which is able to prepare for 
an admission to the realms of everlasting peace. 

Third month 6th. Going to the residence of Elizabeth, 
the widow of Thomas B., to inquire after her sister Mary, 
now ill, an unexpected opportunity offered of entering into 
sympathy with Elizabeth, and of imparting encouragement 
to her, to continue her trust in the Father of the fatherless, 



240 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1839. - 



and Judge of the widow. The same morning, from a secret 
drawing, attended the Western Meeting, and w T as favored 
with an opening on the passage, ' Keep thy foot when thou 
goest to the house of God,' &c. ; and strength w 7 as afforded to 
enlarge upon it, and afterwards to hand out consolation to 
the mourners, particularly those who have been deprived of 
their companions, and feel the sorrows of the widowed heart. 
After meeting, accompanied by a young Friend, I visited a 
daughter of affliction, to w T hom the consolations of the Gospel 
were offered. 

10th. In the afternoon meeting, instances of the efficacy 
of living faith were adduced, as encouragement to the Lord's 
tribulated children to trust in Him. The circumstance of the 
famine in Samaria, and the plenty predicted by the prophet 
Elisha, which so soon followed, was mentioned, as also his 
preservation when the King of Syria sent a band of men to 
take him ; each of these cases being spiritually applied. 

11th. Visited, in company with other Friends, one of the 
departments of the Select School, by appointment. A com- 
fortable feeling prevailed, and the dear children were spoken 
to, and the language of encouragement addressed to their 
teacher. 

12th. Being brought under a concern to attend the North 
Meeting, I gave up to it. An opening presented on the sub- 
ject of the prophet's visit to the potter's house, with which I 
stood up and was favored to speak to some states in the love 
of Truth. Dear Elizabeth Pith eld afterwards was acceptably 
engaged in supplication ; and it appeared to be a solemn op- 
portunity. 

Third month 13th. Believed it my duty to attend Had- 
donfield Quarterly Meeting. I went to the meeting of Minis- 
ters and Elders this day, which was owned of our gracious 



1839.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



241 



Shepherd ; several Friends ministered acceptably, and it 
seemed to be proper for me to bring into view the character 
and faithfulness of departed worthies, formerly members of 
that meeting. A precious covering prevailed during great 
part of the meeting. 

14th. At the Quarterly Meeting for business. The united 
opportunity previous to entering upon the concerns of the 
Society, was a favored season. The testimony I believed it 
right for me to deliver, was on the prophecy of Jacob con- 
cerning the coming of Shiloh, and the gathering of the peo- 
ple to Him. Elizabeth Evans afterwards spoke very closely 
to the present state of our Society, with a good degree of 
Gospel authority. Both yesterday and to day, my dear 
friends Simon Gillam and Joseph Whitall were present to 
my comfort. 

17th. In the afternoon meeting, being drawn into a feel- 
ing of compassion with the miserable, those made so by 
rebellion and transgression against the light, some words 
were spoken, remining such of the unfailing mercies of God 
in Christ Jesus, and of our Lord's compassion of the man 
leaving the ninety and nine sheep, and going into the wil- 
derness after the one which had gone astray, and setting 
forth the compassionate regard of Him who came to seek 
and to save that which was lost. 

19th. Rebuking a friend for improper conduct, I spoke 
with too great asperity, for which I was soon sorry, but not, 
perhaps, sufficiently so. Lord ! put on me the armament of 
a meek and quiet spirit. 

20th. At the Western Meeting. Our Friend Daniel 
Wheeler present, but silent. I spoke on the language of 
Isaiah the prophet, personating the Lord Jesus Christ ; ' I 
have trodden the wine-press alone, and of the people there 



242 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1839. 



was none with me ;' in sympathy with those who are now 
enduring tribulation for the Gospel's sake. Before the meet- 
ing closed, I was sensible of an impression pointing to vocal 
prayer, but waiting for the motion to be more deeply felt, 
the meeting ended. If any suffered loss by my withholding, 
I regret it, but should much more regret appearing in that 
solemn service without the requisite qualification. 

21st. At our week-day meeting, Ave had the company 
of Elizabeth Robson, in silence. The meeting appeared in a 
good degree favored, and my mouth was opened in prayer. 
In the afternoon went a few miles into the State of New 
Jersey, to visit the family of my kinsman, Henry Warring- 
ton. 

22d. In company with H. Warrington, called on a few 
Friends, and visited one who was sick ; a religious oppor- 
tunity took place in his chamber ; his wife and daughter, as 
well as his wife's aged mother, being present, to each of whom 
the language of encouragement was imparted. 

23rd. Before taking leave of my relations, I found an 
impression of duty to have the family collected. The op- 
portunity seemed to be solid, and divers states were spoken 
to ; the dear young people were encouraged to bear the cross 
of Christ, and to yield obedience to every manifestation of 
the heavenly Father's will. 

24th. First-day morning meeting. An opening on the 
words of our Lord, ' My meat is to do the will of Him that 
sent me, and to finish his w T ork.' 

Third month 30th to Fourth month 5th. At Westtown 
Boarding School, attending an examination of the scholars, 
and a meeting of the Committee having charge of that semi- 
nary. I was at three meetings occurring in course, which were 
in degree favored. I had some little public labor, and some 



1839. J MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 243 



more privately with scholars towards whom my mind was 
drawn ; and a hope attends that it was not altogether in vain. 
I feel a renewed belief that this institution is under the care 
of our heavenly Parent, and strong desires that all who are 
entrusted with its oversight, may act under a weighty sense 
of their accountability to Him ; that thus it may be preserved 
in a situation to answer the design of its establishment — the 
preservation of the dear children from evil example, and 
their growth in virtue and piety, as well as their instruction 
in useful learning. 

Fourth month 10th. The state of our religious Society, 
from various causes, affords at present a sorrowful prospect. 
Diversity of sentiment prevails, even on very momentous 
subjects; and the fruits of love in many cases are blasted. 
My present prayer is, that I may be preserved inward to the 
Lord ; and that He may be pleased not only to be merciful 
to the remnant of his heritage, but by his mighty power to 
open the blind eyes amongst us, and restore those who have 
in any degree lost the unity of the spirit — the bond of peace. 

13th to 19th. The Yearly Meeting for Ministers and 
Elders commenced the 13th, that for business the 15th. Many 
Friends had looked forward to the meeting with much anx- 
iety, in consequence of the present state of society ; yet, 
through Divine mercy, it proved, on the whole, a favored 
season. A great weight of exercise attended, on many ac- 
counts, yet the Lord w T as near his dependent children ; his 
power at times was felt to be over all, and the meeting sepa- 
rated under a feeling sense impressed on many minds, that 
God is good to Israel. 

[At this Yearly Meeting the following public Friends 
were present — Daniel Wheeler, Elizabeth Robson, Joseph 
John Gurney, Anne Thornburgh, Joseph Edgerton, Richard 



244 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1839. 



H. Thomas, Elizabeth Peckham, Anne A. Jenkins, Phebe 
Haines, late Cobb.] 

30th. Attended Frankford Monthly Meeting. Silence 
was my portion in the meeting for worship, attended with 
thankfulness that I felt no desire to speak, unless divinely 
required. I visited a young person in the afternoon, who 
appears to be in a decline, and offered what appeared to be 
given, me for her encouragement. 

Fifth month 1st. Finding K. D. had not left the city, I 
felt drawn to see her, and in a religious opportunity appre- 
hended myself made sensible of her present state, and au- 
thorized to speak in a line of caution, counsel and encourage- 
ment, which seemed to be suitably received." 

In this month Thomas Kite attended the Quarterly Meet- 
ing of Salem and Western. His daughter Rebecca being in 
New England, visiting some of his friends, T. K. wrote to 
her frequently. Under date of Sixth month 22nd, after 
family information, &c, he concludes : — 

" In conclusion, I desire, as perhaps I have written before, 
thy preservation, not only from evil, but from its appearance, 
that thy light may so shine through thy watchful attention 
to the intimations of the Divine Will, that others may have 
evidence that thou belongs to the family of Christ ; of Him 
who said, ' My kingdom is not of this world ;' and who also 
said, ' If any man will be my disciple, and come after me, let 
him take up his cross daily, and follow me.' 

Seventh month 3rd. Thy uncle James, I believe, has not 
quite decided when to go to Lynn, but I presume it will be 
in a few days. He will be under the necessity of making his 
stay short, and I suppose thou wilt be glad of the opportunity 
of returning with him. We shall rejoice to receive thee safe 
after all thy journeyings, especially if we perceive that, like 



1889.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



245 



Paul the Apostle, every where and in all things, thou hast 
been instructed, and that thou returns with the disposition 
strengthened, which can say with him, ' Herein do I exercise 
myself to have always a conscience void of offence, both 
towards God and towards man.' * * * With a heart 
full of tender greetings, and affectionate desires for thy wel- 
fare, every way, I remain thy father and friend." 

On the 17th of the preceding month he wrote to her: " I 
have nothing remaining but to express the desire which often 
accompanies my mind, that thou may experience preservation 
from evil ; cultivate retirement of mind, and spiritual fellow- 
ship with the ' Friend who sticketh closer than a brother/ 
that thus the present journey, notwithstanding the danger 
which attends on such association with mankind, may not in 
thy case produce unhappy results; but rather beneficial 
effects. * * * And that thy absence from home may 
prove a time of renewal of covenant to serve the Lord, and 
to dedicate to his service thy future days, that the resolution 
may be w r ritten in thy heart by the finger of divine love and 
mercy, to perfect holiness in the fear of the Lord, being 
enabled to breathe the language of adoption, ' Abba, Father !' 
to take the exhortation of the Lord by his prophet, ' Wilt 
thou not from this time say unto me, my Father, thou art the 
guide of my youth V " 

Thomas Kite, Jr., in the Seventh month of this year, went 
to the West to establish himself in business. He had served 
his apprenticeship as a machinist ; and that trade being under 
temporary depression in Philadelphia, he sought an opening 
where the prospect seemed more encouraging. 



/ 

246 MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1839. 



t. k. to his daughter rebecca, then again at Westtown 
as a teacher. 

Eighth month 19th, 1839. 

I can scarcely lay down my pen without expressing some 
desires which arise warm from a heart overflowing with 
affection. May the Lord preserve thee, not only from evil, 
but from the least appearance of it. Cultivate retirement, 
and an inward acquaintance with thy Creator and Redeemer ; 
and when this little service at the institution is accomplished, 
mayest thou be restored to us in peace, established in the 
holy resolution not to live henceforth unto thyself, but unto 
Him who died for thee and rose again. 

Ninth month 9th. To the same. * * Thy sister had 
a letter from her husband, dated at Mount Pleasant, on First- 
day evening, the first inst., after attending tw T o meetings there. 
In the first John Wood and Elizabeth Evans spoke remarka- 
bly. In the afternoon the meeting was thought to have been 
favored, though I forget who was stated to have ministered. 
I have from other quarters heard that the Yearly Meeting 
got on comfortably. On Fifth-day, Daniel Wheeler was very 
remarkably engaged in testimony. * * * And now my 
dear child, whilst I rejoice in believing the time approaches 
when thou wilt be restored to us in peace, I feel some anxiety 
that thou may not relax that holy vigilance — that state of 
watching unto prayer, without which preservation will hardly 
be witnessed. Be circumspect ; shun the appearance of swerv- 
ing from the line of rectitude. Rather debar thyself of 
gratifications that might perhaps be lawfully indulged, than 
give occasion to critical observers to make their unfeeling 
remarks. Remember, that those in Daniel's time who sought 
occasion against him were convinced they should not find it, 



1839.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



247 



" excepting concerning the Jaw of his God." Accept these 
few remarks in the love in which they are written by him 
who feels himself thy affectionate father. 

T. K. TO HIS SON THOMAS. 

Religious parents can have no greater consolation in regard 
to their children than to know of their walking in the Truth. 
I do greatly desire this separation from us for a season may 
prove a time of spiritual improvement to thee. It was when 
Jacob had left his father's house, on a solitary journey, he 
was favored with a heavenly visitation, and entered into 
covenant with his father's God. Should this be thy happy 
experience, I shall not regret our temporary separation. May 
the Lord bless thee, and keep thee from evil, and if it be his 
blessed will, restore thee to us in peace. 

Tenth month 5th. To the same. I suppose thou art now 
at Richmond, attending the Yearly Meeting, and that I shall 
soon have the satisfaction of receiving from thee an account 
of it, as also of our particular friends whom thou mayest meet 
with. We had, last night a serious fire in the neighborhood 
of the wharf— Chestnut Street, Water and Front Streets — 
supposed to have been the greatest which ever happened in 
this city. Perhaps forty houses are injured or destroyed. Thy 
sister Rebecca is at home. * * Aaron's neighbor, Wm. 
Osbourn's family have met with an affecting bereavement. 
As his eldest son, David, who is married, but not commenced 
house-keeping, attempted to mount his horse on Fifth-day 
week, the animal started and threw him. He was much 
injured, and languished until Second-day, when he died, 
without its being certain that he had ever roused up to per- 
fect consciousness. * * Uncle John Letchworth obtained 
a minute at our last Monthly Meeting to visit the Monthly 



248 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1839. 



Meeting of Abington Quarterly Meeting, and accomplished 
it last week. Samuel B. Morris, of Germantown, bore him 
company. * * Did I mention that thy brother William 
had a daughter named Esther, who will be four weeks old 
to-morrow? Our anxiety for thy welfare every way, con- 
tinues ; not merely desiring thou may keep out of the way of 
evil communications, but that thou may really experience a 
growth in grace ; bearing the cross daily ; submitting to the 
baptisms of the Holy Spirit ; having thy conversation in 
heaven ; seeking first the kingdom of God and the righteous- 
ness thereof, and keeping the most allowable of worldly com- 
forts in their proper places. Thus wilt thou become increas- 
ingly, if our lives be spared, a comfort to thy parents, and 
to other affectionate friends. 

John L. Kite had been for some time practising as a phy- 
sician in Susquehanna County, where his children could not 
have the benefits of mingling in social intercourse with the 
members of the Society of Friends. This became a subject 
of much concern to Thomas Kite, and at his suggestion his 
brother removed to the city. Shortly after his arrival, seve- 
ral of his children were taken ill with scarlet fever, and his 
third son, Alban, a lovely youth of seventeen years of age, 
sunk beneath the attack. In a letter written to an absent 
member of the family, by one of his cousins, this passage 
occurs : " I think I never saw a more beautiful corpse than 
his was. His fine high forehead, his sweet and placid counte- 
nance looked so lovely, we could scarce resign him to the 
cold earth. William and Elizabeth Evans sat with the 
family. Elizabeth spoke very sweetly to the bereaved 
parents, and the young relations. She thought some were in 
a peculiar manner called on to improve by the present dis- 



1839.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 249 



pensation. * * We had a very interesting time in the 
evening. Father [T. K.] expressed his sympathy for uncle 
and aunt, and his desire for the rest of us that we might walk 
in the straight and narrow way. He commenced with say- 
ing he had been thinking of innocent Abel, whose offering 
was accepted through faith. So it was through faith that the 
ornament of a meek and quiet spirit was so conspicuously 
set upon him ; desiring that we might follow him as he foh 
lowed Christ. 

T. K. TO MARTHA JEFFERIS. 

Philadelphia, Eleventh month 25th, 1839. 

Dear Sister : — I thought I might as well inform thee, 
although probably thou hast heard it already, that our banks 
generally do not consider themselves at liberty to declare 
dividends during the suspension of specie payments. * * 
On Fourth-day night, last, I was aroused from my first 
slumber, by the ringing of our bell. On putting my head 
out of the window, Joseph Edgerton answered to my call. 
He and his companion, William Dewees, were at the door, 
and I soon admitted them. After attending all the meetings 
of New England Yearly Meeting, and some out of the Society, 
he found a release from the remainder of his prospect for the 
present, and a liberty to return home. He seemed very 
pleasant and cheerful, and William no less so. After attend- 
ing our meeting on Fifth-day, they started homeward on 
Sixth-day, expecting to be at their own Quarterly Meeting 
to-morrow and next day. 

Notwithstanding the causes of depression which abound 
amongst us, I have been at a number of meetings of late, 
which have been attended, in a good degree, with the sol- 
emnizing power of Truth. This is certainly a token for 
17 



250 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1839. 



good ; and it is evidence that the Holy Head of his church 
and people is still mindful of us. I cannot but believe that 
a larger number of young Friends are disposed to take up 
the cross, than has usually been found amongst us. May 
they be preserved. 

Jacob Green was at Carolina Yearly Meeting. Thomas 
and Elizabeth Robson have been visiting families at Lynn, 
Massachusetts, and making their home at Isaac Bassett's. J. 
J. Gurney was to sail on Sixth-day for the West Indies. I 
understand he expects to be at our Yearly Meeting in the 
Spring, and also at those of New York and Rhode Island. 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER SUSANNA. 

Twelfth month 25th, 1839. 
Thou art very near to my best feelings, together with thy 
beloved companion and your precious babes. I believe the 
dear Master has need of thee ; need of thy services in his 
church ; and though nature may shrink from it, and thou 
mayest count thyself unworthy, yet remember he is able to 
fit and prepare for his own work, and will do it, as there is 
a giving up the heart to him, and humbly abiding under the 
purifying baptisms of his Holy Spirit. I want thee to be 
encouraged, and also dear Aaron ; although the prospect of a 
succession of upright-hearted, clean -spirited standard-bearers 
in your Monthly Meeting may not be very encouraging, yet 
the Lord is as able as ever He w 7 as to raise up children unto 
Abraham. Then trust in Him who can cause the very dust 
of Zion to arise and praise Him. * * * Jacob Green is 
again in the city, attending our Monthly Meetings, which 
occur this week. His prospect is to be at those of your 
Quarterly Meeting in the week ensuing. There is also here, 
or was yesterday, a member from Canada, his last name 



1839.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



251 



Knowles, accompanied by his wife, bound for Indiana, and 
to visit some Indians west of the Mississippi. He is to be 
felt for, being lame, and having but one horse and a dearborn, 
the season trying to travel, and the mountains being often 
covered to a considerable depth with snow. 



CHAPTER XIV.— 1839-1840. 

JOSEPH JOHN GURNEY — LETTER TO JOSEPH J. GURNEY 

— LETTERS — YEARLY MEETING LAST LETTER OF HIS 

MOTHER HER DEATH. 

Joseph John Gurney, late of Norwich, England, will 
long be remembered on account of the extensive distress and 
disunity produced throughout the Society of Friends, by 
his doctrinal writings. He was a man of intellect, highly 
cultivated, and having devoted himself to literary pursuits, 
he acquired facility in composition, and his style was not 
without force and elegance. Having studied the doctrines 
of the Christian religion as he found them unfolded in the 
Scriptures of Truth, aided in his researches by the writings 
of eminent biblical critics and commentators, he came to a 
judgment as to what they were, and undertook to defend 
them by his pen. He had read the writings of Robert Bar- 
clay, and other early Friends, and though his views did in 
many points differ from theirs, yet he endeavored to persuade 
himself and others, that he was one with them, in what he 
understood to be the meaning of their " unhappy" choice of 
words. 

He was a member of the Society of Friends, and was ac- 



252 MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1840. 



knowledged as a "minister" in it by Norwich Monthly 
Meeting. Soon his activity with his tongue and pen caused 
him to be considered as a prominent leader, not only in the 
Society of Friends, but amongst the various benevolent 
associations throughout England, and also among the de- 
fenders of what is called " Orthodox" doctrine against Uni- 
tarianism, and other grades of infidelity. 

About the close of the year 1839, or beginning of 1840, 
Thomas Kite, under a sense of religious duty, addressed him 
the following letter. 

" I have at different times taken occasion to express to thee 
my uneasiness with thy writings as containing sentiments 
not in unison with the doctrines of our early Friends ; I 
have thought I perceived at least a tendency towards the 
same views in thy public preaching. My motive in writing 
now is, to desire thee calmly to consider what has been the 
effect of thy writings, and more particularly of thy present 
visit, on our Society in this country. Thou found us gener- 
ally in unity. That unity to a great extent has been broken ; 
and I believe thy coming amongst us, under the accompany- 
ing circumstances, has been the principal cause, and the 
means of producing that extensive distress which, within the 
last three years, has overspread many parts of the Society 
in this land. Some members appear to have been inclined 
to embrace thy views ; others consider them fraught with 
danger to the best interests of the Society ; hence a' conflict 
of feeling has occurred, which partiality, prejudice, miscon- 
ception, and other causes have probably contributed to 
heighten. If thou hast been the occasion of this sorrowful 
state of things, might it not be best to leave us, that without 
any fresh cause of uneasiness administered, we may have 
leisure to feel after our situation, make explanations to each 



1840.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



253 



other, and endeavor to seek for the healing balm of Gilead. 
I would tenderly entreat thee to turn thy attention inward, 
and humbly wait for the discoveries of that Light which 
makes manifest, that thus thy own state and condition may 
be discovered by thee, and through the mercy of a gracious 
God, the enemy in all his transformations may be detected 
and cast out, and thou, being brought to rely on Him alone 
who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life, may be brought 
into, and preserved in fellowship with his living members. 
If this should be thy happy experience, I believe secret and 
open acknowledgment will be called for from thee, because 
of the offence given to many little ones who believe in the 
Lord Jesus, not only as to his outward appearance, and all 
that He did and suffered for us in the flesh, but also as to 
his inward and spiritual appearance as the true Light which 
enlighteneth every man that cometh into the w T orld, and the 
only principle of Divine Life to the soul." 

T. K. TO HIS SON THOMAS. 

First month 2nd, 1840. 
I feel, my dear son, much for thee, separated so far from us, 
and knowing how liable youth is to be tempted. The subject 
has been brought home to my feelings, by the circumstance 
of a Friend's son, nearly of thy own age, having disgraced 
himself, and brought deep affliction on his family and friends, 
by an act of immorality. I do not mention it as supposing 
his will be thy unhappy condition, but as a case coming 
home to my feelings, in remembering that I am a father, and 
in sympathizing with a distressed parent. I cannot but 
trust, that He who was my father's God, and has conde- 
scended to take care of me, will bless my absent son, and 
preserve him in that fear which keepeth the heart clean. I 



254 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1840. 



hope that every day thou may est read a portion of the Holy 
Scripture, with thy mind seriously turned to feel after that 
spiritual influence which can open the meaning of the holy 
penman to the understanding, and impress it on the heart ; 
and also have some seasons of private retirement for waiting 
on thy Heavenly Father for the renewal of thy strength ; 
besides being diligent in assembling with thy Friends on 
First and week days for the essential duty of public worship. 
Thy care in these various respects and in endeavoring never 
to act in contradiction to the discoveries of Divine Light in 
thy. own heart, will doubtless draw down the blessing of 
Heaven upon thee. The warmest wish of my heart for thee 
is, that thou mayest be prepared by the operation of the 
Lord's holy power, to live to his honor and glory, and thy 
own peace ; and live to take the place of pillars in his house 
who have been removed to that heavenly habitation where 
the morning stars sing together, and the sons of God forever 
shout for joy. 

We have had Jacob Green in the city lately. He dined 
with us this day week, and had a religious opportunity in 
the family afterwards, to our comfort. Cousin Edith Jefferis 
has been with us very pleasantly ; and went home on Third- 
day last. At our evening meeting on First-day she was 
with us, and after some expressions of religious concern by 
thy father, she knelt down and petitioned for spiritual bless- 
ings. I feel a hope she is likely to be made a pillar in the 
Lord's house, if she is faithful to Divine requirings. Com- 
mending thee to the guidance and protection of Israel's 
Shepherd, who sleepeth not by day, nor slumbereth by night, 
I remain thy anxiously concerned and truly affectionate 
father. 



1840.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



255 



During this First month, at one of the sittings in his family, 
Thomas Kite was led to address several of those gathered, in 
a sweetly affectionate and solemn manner. He commenced 

• with addressing ; said he thought it was a critical 

time with her, and expressed the earnest desire he felt, that 
she might improve by the opportunities which were pre- 
sented to her. Then came something for , encouraging 

her to persevere. Next was a message for John L. Smith, 
desiring he might seek first the kingdom of heaven, then all 
things necessary would be added ; impressing the necessity 
of a complete surrender. If this is not the case a blessing 
may not accompany our labors. 

T. K. TO HIS SON THOMAS. 

Second month 11th, 1840. 
I am not yet prepared to give a decided sentiment on the 
subject of thy locating thyself at Cincinnati. * * * I 
fear that Cincinnati is not so eligible as this city for foster- 
ing religious interests, which are of more value than temporal 
ones ; besides the painful thought of having thee fixed at so 
great a distance from us. I desire what may be for the best 
may take place. * * * Notwithstanding the anxiety I 
manifest for thy welfare, I wish not to show a want of con- 
fidence in thy principles or thy disposition to act in con- 
formity with my wishes : above all I wish not to distrust 
the providential care of the Most High, who is mighty to 
save, and able to redeem. If it be his will that thou shouldst 
abide for a time in a state of separation from thy immediate 
connections, He can bless and sanctify this separation to thee. 
He can protect his dependent children in every state, and 
preserve from every evil, and enable them to glorify Him. 
Look up to Him for direction, consult his Witness in thy 



256 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1840. 



heart, which is given for a Counsellor and Leader ; follow its 
dictates, and grieve not the Holy Spirit of God, by which 
the disciples of the Lord Jesus are sealed unto the day of 
redemption. So shall thy life be happy, and the work of 
preparation be going on for another state of being, where, 
having fulfilled thy coarse of service to thy great Lord and 
Master on earth, thou may forever enjoy the sweet society 
of pure and blessed spirits in the paradise of God. 

In the Second month, Thomas Kite attended' Concord 
Quarterly Meeting. Writing to his daughter Rebecca after 
his return he said : — " Thou probably heard by cousin James, 
that the two carriage loads of Philadelphians started together 
on Fourth-day morning. Thos. Scattergood with his com- 
pany took the lead, and we quickly lost sight of them in the 
fog. It was agreed that we should dine at George Allen's 
at Springfield, but when we arrived there we could get no 
tidings of our friends. Charles and I reached home in the 
evening. I have since heard that T. S. missed his way and 
went from Middletown towards Chester. On discovering his 
mistake he was about to turn back, but the women [Sarah 
Hillman and her companion] prevented him, finding their 
minds drawn towards Chester Meeting, which they attended 
and came home in the evening. I understand there was 
cause to believe they were rightly at the meeting." 

T. K. TO HIS SOX THOMAS. 

Third month 25th. * * * Dr. Parrish deceased a few 
days ago. He has been declining in health several months, 
but was not long confined to his bed. There has been con- 
siderable eulogy of his character as a physician and a man, 
in the public papers. 



1840.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



257 



30th. Since my last date above, we have had a time of 
trial in the family. Brother John's daughter Sarah's indis- 
position increased, the cold settled on her lungs and liver, 
and on Sixth-day morning, about two o'clock, she ceased to 
be an inhabitant of this world. It is a great affliction to 
her parents, particularly the dear mother, to whom she was 
much of a companion. She was aged nearly thirteen years. 
I think about four months had elapsed since the death of 
Alban. I feel desirous that the parents may apply to the 
only sure source of consolation ; and that all the connections 
of the dear child may take this renewed warning, and seek 
to be ready for an hour which we cannot tell how soon may 
come, when it will be said, " Give an account of thy steward- 
ship, for thou mayest be steward no longer." 

Our minds are now looking forward to the approaching 
Yearly Meeting, which commences this day three weeks. As 
usual, our feelings are of a mingled character. Whilst we 
anticipate some pleasant emotions from meeting old and 
valued friends, and near relatives, we are brought under 
feelings of exercise and concern that the good cause may not 
lose ground ; and prayers are raised to the Father of mercies, 
that He may be pleased to be near, and comfort the hearts of 
the mourners in Zion, confirm the weak, and bring home 
wanderers from the path of rectitude to himself, that so his 
great name, and the name of his dear Son, our holy Redeemer, 
may be magnified and glorified. 

P. S. — T. and E. R., who have been much of late in New 
England, are expected at our Yearly Meeting ; Jacob Green 
is also looked for ; he was, at last accounts, in New York 
State. Mildred Ratcliffe and Benjamin Hoyle, ministers 
belonging to Ohio Yearly Meeting, are also expected ; and 
no doubt we shall have others, of whom we have not yet 
heard. 



258 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1840. 



On Seventh-day the 18th, Christopher Healy called in the 
morning at Thomas Kite's to see John Wilbur, who made 
his home there. He appeared enjoyed to meet with him, and 
taking him by the hand, kissed him. He said, " John and 
I were members of the same meeting in early life, and w T e 
have been drinking out of the same cup ever since." Ellen 
McCarthy was present, and many other Friends. A lively 
conversation ensued, at first turning on the difficulties many 
had to pass through in remote places in getting to meetings. 
This was particularly the case with females in low circum- 
stances, who had young children. Ellen spoke feelingly of 
her trials in that respect, in years past, w T hen she had gene- 
rally to walk twice a week to the meeting, several miles dis- 
tant from her residence, and carry a baby in her arms. 
Christopher also gave his experience in the line of walking 
to meeting, and carrying babies, having followed the occupa- 
tion pretty diligently for many years. He spoke of the 
hardness of heart of some persons who were unwilling to sit 
in meeting with babies, and who would condemn all mothers 
to stay at home whilst the children were small, if they had 
no person to leave at home with them. The conversation 
then turned on the various testimonies of our Society to 
plainness in dress and address. Christopher, in earnestly 
setting forth the necessity of keeping to them, quoted Judge 
Jay, then member of Congress — the ambassador to England 
— the humble minded Christian. " I admire your Society. 
The principle contains all of Christianity that I have any idea 
of; but I am sorry to see that some of you are losing your 
badge ; and I don't see how you can retain your principles, 
and forego your little peculiarities, your marks of moderation, 
self-denial, and difference from the spirit of the w orld. You 
are lights. The world should come to you ; but you are not 



1840.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



259 



to go to the world. You may gather them ; but they will 
scatter you." Thomas Kite then quoted Samuel Neale's 
account of his two visits to the Bishop of Cloghen, in the 
first of which he balked his religious testimony, and was 
treated with contempt by the Bishop, and felt reproved by 
the spirit of Truth, and ashamed of his cowardice. In the 
second, having spoken as a Quaker, he was treated with 
great civility, and felt comfortable and happy. He thought, 
however, the principle of Truth should govern throughout — 
temper as well as dress — telling the following anecdote. A 
Friend in plain attire, having in an excited manner, rebuked 
severely a young person in gay apparel, for speaking in meet- 
ing in favor of the admission of a colored man into the Society 
of Friends, James Simpson spoke out, " I had rather hear 
truth from a lapell, than see indignation under a plain coat." 
[James had previously said, as soon as the young man sat 
down, " Well done, lapells."] 

Christopher then mentioned that soon after he became 
plain, having business with Elisha Potter, a great lawyer and 
member of Congress, in company with one of his brothers, he 
called upon him. Christopher found he must address this 
great man in the plain way, although it was no small trial 
to do so. Elisha received him and his friendly salutations 
kindly, and they transacted the business which took him 
there. When it was over, Elisha; addressing the brother, 
said, he perceived that Christopher was determined to keep 
to the peculiarities of the Society of Friends, and he was glad 
of it. He liked to see consistency. He then strongly con- 
demned those Quakers, who on occasion, put off their testi- 
monies and appear like the world ; saying, " There are many 
that do so." His wife, who was sitting by, here interposed 
and said, " You wrong the Society, Mr. Potter, by attributing 



260 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1840. 



to them the conduct of such members. Th$y are a burden 
to them." The opportunity was a very interesting one to 
Christopher, and the parties all separated in friendship. In 
process of years, sometime after Christopher had received a 
gift in the ministry of the gospel, he found a concern raised 
in his mind to hold a meeting in the neighborhood where 
this lawyer resided. Elisha, on being informed of it, was 
very active in procuring a suitable place, and in preserving 
order in the company which assembled. 

During the Yearly Meeting week, commencing Fourth 
month 19th, this year, Thomas Kite's house was thronged 
with strangers. Almost every evening a religious opportunity 
was had in the family, some of which were peculiarly striking 
and instructive. On First-day evening, the Westtown teachers 
— the females — were gathered there ; and Thomas Kite was 
much favored in near access to the Throne of mercy, inter- 
ceding that those assembled might unreservedly obey and 
serve the Lord in full dedication of heart. On Fifth-day 
evening Benjamin Hoyle spoke in a very feeling manner to 
a large company who were assembled. On Sixth-day even- 
ing Jacob Green was opened in a very lively and encourag- 
ing communication. He spoke of the goodness and mercy of 
a gracious God, extended to all the obedient. He addressed 
the young particularly, opening in the counsel of Light what 
they were called to, and their services in the Gospel of Christ ; 
if they closed in with the divine requirings, and bowed thereto 
in perfect submission. Edith Jefferis then knelt in supplica- 
tion. She prayed for our dear friend Jacob, that he might 
be strengthened to hand forth all the Master's counsel to 
those amongst whom he was sent, and that he might be pre- 
served through every height and depth through which he 
might be led. 



1840.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



261 



During the time of answering the Queries on Third-day, 
the 21st, Thomas Kite had an opportunity of relieving his 
mind of a concern he had long felt on the subject of books. 
He adverted to the increased necessity there was for Friends 
to examine. the publications they admitted into their houses. 
Objectiouable matter was issuing in great abundance from 
the press, particularly in the periodicals of the day. Beside 
these, there were many books found on the tables of Friends, 
and read in their families, which, containing some excellent 
sentiments, had mixed up with them in intimate connection, 
view r s adverse to the doctrines and testimonies which, as a 
religious Society, we bear to the world. He felt a concern 
to caution Friends on the subject of the indiscriminate read- 
ing of books professedly religious. 

T. K. TO HIS SON THOMAS. 

Fifth month 2nd. 

Our family are in usual health, unless it be thy grand- 
mother. On Third-day she had an operation performed on 
her face ; the lump which she had so long borne, and which 
has latterly much increased in size, was then removed. Dr. 
Darrach and thy uncle John were present ; the former held 
the knife. The patient behaved with great firmness, and is 
now doing well. I believe thou hast heard of thy sister 
Susan's indisposition. She continues unwell, and may pro- 
bably have to lie in bed some weeks. 

I suppose some of the family have "written to thee about 
our late Yearly Meeting. It was large and much valuable 
counsel was communicated in it. We had [at our house] the 
acceptable company of John Wilbur, also of George F. Reed, 
classical teacher at Providence Boarding School ; who was 
convinced of Friends' principles by the immediate operation 



262 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1810. 



of the Holy Spirit, when he was a preacher among the Bap- 
tists, We found hirn quite intelligent and agreeable. We 
had beside, thy aunt Martha, her two daughters, and son 
Joshua, thy uncle and aunt Middleton, Susan Taber, (Eliza- 
beth's aunt,) of New Bedford, and Elizabeth S. Fell. 

Our friend Daniel Wheeler arrived the early part of the 
week at New York, but quite in poor health. He is so much 
indisposed, that his continuance in this life is thought doubt- 
ful. 

With respect to the important subject of where thou art to 
settle, I have not been able fully to make up my mind. 
Outward prospects of gain ought to be subordinate to thy 
best interests ; and I wish that to take place which will be 
for thy good. 

Before I close, I will just give thee a few particulars of 
the proceedings of our Yearly Meeting. When we met on 
Second-day morning, Jacob Green expressed how comforting 
to him was the awful silence into which we were drawn, and 
in which the wing of Ancient Goodness was felt to be extended 
over us. There were many of us who would never meet again 
in this capacity ; and some dear elderly Friends present, who 
felt they should be of that number. He wanted such encour- 
aged. He believed there was a precious seed preserved among 
the ancients, the middle aged and the youth, and that better 
days were at hand for this Society. By the minutes of the 
Meeting for Sufferings, a sorrowful account of the slave trade 
was laid before us ; it appears to be increasing in extent, and 
attended with greater horrors than ever; upwards of one 
thousand per day are the victims of it ; separated from their 
native land, a large portion of whom perish in the voyage to 
the land of bondage. A memorial concerning our late 
Friend, Jonathan Evans, was read ; by which it appeared he 



1840.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



263 



was convinced by incidently looking into Penn's " No Cross, 
No Crown/' and seeing there a testimony to the Light of 
Christ in men. The reading the answers to the Queries, 
introduced the meeting into exercise on account of the con- 
tinued neglect of our members in attending religious meet- 
ings, it being evident that the love of other things is stealing 
away the heart from the love of God, and that in this state 
there neither can be a growth in the life and power of religion, 
nor a right qualification to fulfil the obligations we all owe 
to Him, and parents owe to their offspring. A desire was 
felt that the negligent might again be labored with in the 
restoring love of the gospel. The introduction into Friends' 
families of improper books, was also adverted to, not only the 
light and frothy productions of the periodical press, but also 
books on religious subjects, which contain along with much 
that is excellent, sentiments at variance with our doctrines 
and testimonies. We were much affected with hearing the 
report of the Committee on Indian Affairs. It appears that 
the plans of avaricious men to drive away those natives who 
have been under our care, beyond the Mississippi, are likely 
to take effect, in consequence of a pretended treaty obtained 
by unfair means, having been lately confirmed in the Senate 
of the United States, by the casting vote of the presiding 
officer. The business [of the Yearly Meeting] having been 
finished on Sixth-day afternoon, a solemn silence covered the 
assembly, when Jacob Green broke forth with the voice of 
thanksgiving, " Oh, give thanks unto the Lord, for He is 
good ; for his mercy endureth forever," with more to the 
same effect. 

In the Sixth month of this year Thomas Kite went to 
Cincinnati to visit his son, and to see about establishing him 



264 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1840. 



in business there. He left Philadelphia on the 15th, and 
thus wrote from Pittsburg on the 19th, viz : " I arrived at 
this dusky, smoky city last evening, about half-past eight 
o'clock, having been three nights and four days on my way 
hither. My fellow passengers were mostly agreeable people, 
and I have been but little fatigued. I put up last night at the 
United States Hotel, where I am now waiting for breakfast, 
intending immediately afterwards to visit the steamboats lying 
at the river side, to select one out of three which advertise to 
start for Cincinnati to-day. I had provided myself with 
books for reading, but got very little of it attended to. 
Between the striking and magnificent scenery, and the con- 
versation of many of my fellow passengers, I could scarcely 
obtain the quiet attention to read with profit. Though it is 
rather tedious to be so long on the way, yet I still give the 
preference to the canal route." 

" Cincinnati, Sixth month, 24th. I reached this place 
last evening about dark. We had much detention, partly 
from grounding, because the river was very low, and one 
night because the darkness was so great the pilot could not 
see the channel. We had also to stop for wood and coal, to 
deliver freight and passengers, and on several occasions to 
take in a fresh supply of the latter. Several of those who 
went in the canal boat to Pittsburg with me, continued in 
company to this place. Two Presbyterian ministers were of 
the number, who had been to the General Assembly and taken 
their wives with them. * ' * * They were quite agreea- 
ble, affable men, as was also an elder of the same society who 
came on board at Wheeling, and had been on the same 
errand. Five days and a little more than a half, was occu- 
pied in the passage down the river and the numerous deten- 
tions. The weather was warm, yet we had mostly an agree- 



1840.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 265 

able breeze. I was much occupied with looking at the banks 
of the river, which have suffered much from an unusually 
high freshet this season, and in noticing the various towns 
which are scattered on either side of it. * * * The city 
is certainly a pleasant one for situation and general appear- 
ance ; and is surrounded by handsome eminences, on which 
are a number of good looking country-seats. The prospect 
into Kentucky, which seems close at hand, (the river being 
low is sometimes not seen,) is very fine, two handsome 
villages, one on each side of the Licking, being situated 
directly opjDOsite this place. When near the Ohio, the long 
paved slope down to the water, presents a singular spectacle. 
Low as the water is, the bank is crowded with steamboats, 
taking in or delivering freight. Some coming-to, from be- 
low, or from above ; others giving notice of their intended 
departure ; whilst many people are running to and fro. 
As it presents so much activity now, I can readily imagine, 
that when business is brisk, it must present a scene of great 
bustle. I w T as in the market this morning. Some kinds of 
provision were plenty, — beef for instance, and some good- 
looking mutton ; but I was disappointed in finding things 
higher in price, and less neatly put up than I expected. In 
some instances the warm, soft butter, was ladled out of a pot 
and weighed in scales. Fruit was scarce. A few water-, 
melons from New Orleans were to be seen ; some Morella 
cherries, a few raspberries, very poor currants and about a 
quart of gooseberries, being the principal fresh fruit I saw." 

T. K. TO HIS SON THOMAS. 

Philadelphia, Seventh month 14th, 1840. 
I arrived in safety at home on Fourth-day afternoon last. 
I suppose thou felt somewhat surprised at finding that the 
18 



266 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1840. 



captain of the Boston kept so nearly to his last-named hour. 
About six o'clock the boat drew off and was soon under way. 
In the morning we found ourselves at Maysville. An alarm 
was given that two gold watches were missing, and as two 
passengers had left us at that place, it seemed to be settled 
in the minds of others, that they had stolen them. But 
though this unpleasant circumstance occurred, I had great 
reason to be satisfied with my choice of a boat. We had a 
very respectable and orderly company, no sign of a playing 
card having been made use of ; wdiilst on board " The Flying 
Dutchman," we were afterwards informed, four card tables 
were in use every night. The passengers of the latter boat 
were discharged at Wheeling, whilst our boat continued to 
Pittsburg, where we arrived about eleven o'clock on Sixth- 
day morning. I dined at Pittsburg with a friend of Rachel 
Sheppard's, and took tea with R. L. At nine o'clock took 
the canal boat, which was full to an unpleasant degree. In 
the morning I stopped at Judge Breckenridge's, near 
Tarentum, to pay his wife Caroline, a visit. She was from 
home at a pleasant little village called Freeport, whither 
I followed her, and spent an agreeable day, taking my 
place in the next packet boat, by which I had my passage 
in one not so much crowded. On reaching home, I found 
my family as well as usual, excepting thy dear grand- 
mother, whose health continues feeble. She and thy cousin 
Mary Walton, who is also an invalid, are gone to Frank- 
ford on a visit. Very striking was the proof I received 
of the uncertainty of human life, on -finding no less than 
seven of my friends had departed this life during my ab- 
sence. Mary Gardner, a widow, belonging to Evesham 
Meeting ; William Needles, Elizabeth Kaighn and John 
North, of the Northern District ; Elizabeth Archer, Rebecca 



1840.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



267 



Peirce and Mary W. Brown, of ours. The latter, our neigh- 
bor, lost a darling and only daughter a few months since, 
and grieved much for her. Her own illness was short. 
When she died, thy aunt Mary was sent for, but as she was 
absent at Ann Dowry's, thy mother went instead, and with 
a relation of the deceased prepared the body for burial. 
John North's case is very striking. He had just been preach- 
ing in the first meeting on the day of the Northern District 
Monthly Meeting ; on sitting down he was perceived to be 
gently falling over. On being taken up and carried into the 
entry he quickly breathed his last. The meeting continued, 
with scarcely any interruption, but with great solemnity, 
until the time to go to business. Friends then made an 
opening minute and adjourned for one week. How needful 
always to live in such a state of submission to our Heavenly 
Father's will, as to witness a preparation for our final change, 
whether it come early or late, gradually or suddenly. 

Several friends in Cincinnati spoke to me favorably of thy 
correct deportment, and particularly of thy diligence in at- 
tending religious meetings. This was a comfort to me, for 
every degree of preservation from evil is a blessing, and 
every instance of dedication is to be encouraged ; but I want 
thee to press forward after a perfect victory over the flesh, 
the world, and the devil. I long for thee, that thou mayest 
obtain the testimony of Divine approbation, even as holy 
Enoch, w T ho walked with God and had the testimony that he 
pleased God. One remark thou made and one only that I 
recollect gave me uneasiness. It was what thou said in favor 
of music. I think if thou should be tempted to become the 
owner of a musical instrument, of any kind, or to attend at 
any place where music was practised, and give way to tempta- 
tion, it would be to thyself a source of weakness, and to me 



268 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1840. 



of sorrow, if I knew it. The consistent members of our So- 
ciety, have always been ted by the Holy Spirit to give up 
these things, when they became such, though in the days of 
their ignorance of the precious Truth, they may have prac- 
tised them. John Thorp, a valuable minister in England, 
who deceased in 1817, thus expresses himself : " When a boy 
about fourteen years of age, my attachment to music and 
singing was such, that when walking in the lanes and fields 
in an evening, I frequently gratified myself by singing aloud, 
and indulged therein even after my mind became uneasy 
with the practice, until in one of my solitary evening walks, 
and when in the act of singing, I heard, as it were, a voice 
distinctly say, ' If thou wiJt discontinue that gratification, 
thou shalt be made partaker of a much more perfect har- 
mony.' " John Churchman says in his Journal : " I had 
taken great delight from a child to play with whistles and 
pipes made of the bark of small branches of trees, and of 
straws of wheat and rye, but now it grieved me to observe 
children to delight therein ; and I ventured to tell my mind 
to some concerning these things." The same Friend says he 
considered it a base consumption of precious time, which man 
must be accountable for, which, if enough regarded, instead 
of music, whistling, and singing many foolish and profane 
songs, many would have occasion to lament and weep for 
their misspent time. He cautions parents to beware of in- 
dulging their children in anything which may impress their 
tender minds with a desire after music, &c. : and to direct 
the minds of their offspring to attend to the voice of Him 
who called to Samuel in the days of old, and remains to be 
the same Teacher of his people in this age. I have enlarged 
upon this subject, because I wish thy sentiments on all points 
to be correct, knowing that sound sentiments have an im- 
portant bearing on sound practice. 



1840.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



269 



t. k. to his daughter rebecca, then at East Bradford. 

Seventh month 24th. 

's son H. was buried yesterday. He looked like 

a strong, healthy young man. He had been rather unwell 
for some weeks, but his last illness continued about ten days. 
He was mostly delirious. He had one lucid interval, and 
on the expressions he then made use of, hopes are entertained 
of his peaceful close. Happy for surviving relatives, when 
they can look back after such bereavements, not merely on 
death-bed expressions, but on a life of dedication. Thy 
grandmother has gone to Fallowfield, accompanied by thy 
aunt Mary and little John. By a letter received by W. B. F. 
from cousin James R. Greeves, it appears that he has written 
to Aaron. Of course I suppose you have the particulars of 
his voyage out. [J. R. G. accompanied Jacob Green to 
Ireland, where he paid a visit among his own relations.] 

T. K. TO HIS SON THOMAS. 

Seventh month 27th. 
Thy grandmother's health continues poor. She went on 
Fourth-day to Fallowfield, accompanied by thy aunt Mary 
and John L. Kite. I do not know that I have more to say 
than to add thy mother's love and mine, and our continued 
desire for thy preservation from evil, and growth in the 
Truth ; that whatever things are just, pure, lovely, and of 
good report, may be meditated on by thee, and may be ex- 
emplified in thy life. Then will the work of righteousness 
in thy experience be peace, and the effect thereof quietness 
and assurance forever. 

In the Eighth month, Thomas Kite attended Concord Quar- 
terly Meeting, visiting his relations in Chester and Delaware 



270 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1840. 



counties, and then Bucks Quarterly Meeting. His mother, 
whose health had long been declining, was now sinking fast. 
She returned about the close of summer from Fallowfield, 
desiring as she expressed it, to die at home. She had been 
all her life a diligent letter-writer, and even now that death 
seemed so near, and weakness was so great, she made some 
efforts that way. The last attempt was to greet her grand- 
daughter Susanna and her husband ; she was not able to 
finish it. We are willing to insert it as a mark of her man- 
ner, and the spirit in which she was waiting for her close. 
It was written about the beginning of the Tenth month. 

" My dear grand-children. From my sick chamber, I 
might say my sick bed [I write]. I am propped up in bed 
and find it hard work to breathe ; yet mostly get some relief 
after waiting a time. My limbs are much swollen, and I 
find much difficulty in getting to bed. Food I take in small 
quantities, — a soft boiled egg for breakfast, a little thin broth 
for dinner, and a few oysters for supper. 

I do not expect ever to be much better, but try to endure 
all with as much patience as I can, knowing that it is the 
lot of all that live to take a share of suffering. I do not 
think mine will be so heavy but that the Good Hand will 
help me to bear it. A week or two back, I did not feel so 
comfortable, — I seemed to have lost my way ; I could not 
see where the good land lay. I often looked out for some 
sign or token, but all seemed like the fading autumn. Then 
it came into my mind, that the good land was not amongst 
the briars and thorns of this world — I must look ahead! 
Since then I try to be content with the share that comes to 
my lot. 

We hear of many sick and suffering. I expect you have 
heard of the sudden death of Sarah E., and since then of her 



1840.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



271 



sister. One night last week Mary Ann was taken somewhat 
in the same way, but is now better, — quite recruited. 

It would be very pleasant to see either of you ! What a 
great .undertaking to scribble a little ! Mary Walton is 
with me ; our family mostly gone to meeting. 

Second-day morning. I had a more comfortable night. 
William smiles to see his grandmother, pen in hand. He 
and his wife are very kind in bringing me little nice tidbits, 
such as they think I can eat. Indeed all are kind, and 
willing to visit me and make me comfortable." 

MARY KITE TO S. SHARPLESS. 

Eleventh month 14th. 
Thy grandmother has been much as for many weeks past, 
until the last three days ; since which she has had more oppres- 
sion, and her limbs much more swollen, so that it is difficult 
for her to move them. She does not appear to look forward 
with dread to the future, or to anticipate the coming trial, 
leaving all with the Good Physician, who knows wdiat is best 
for her. She sometimes says, w T hen asked how she is, " Gradu- 
ally going." Sometimes she says, " It takes time for nature 
to wear out." 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER SUSANNA. 

Eleventh month 26th. 
* * * William was kind enough to impart the con- 
tents of thy epistle to himself and wife ; and cousin Edith 
and Ann have entertained us with some account of your 
domestic events. They are very pleasantly with us. We 
had them at our Monthly Meeting to-day. Cousin Edith 
was concerned to say a little in the meeting for worship. I 
was yesterday at the Monthly Meeting for the Southern 



272 MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1840. 



District, and Lydia Deane was there, a friend whom thou 
may est have heard of as having attended the Yearly Meet- 
ing last spring. Her residence is in New York, and she is 
here with a prospect of visiting the families which cqmpose 
Orange Street Monthly Meeting. Her concern met with the 
approbation of the meeting, and I suppose she. commenced 
her labors this morning. Elizabeth Evans is absent on a 
similar concern for the two Monthly Meetings of Haddon- 
field and Chester, (N: J.) Win. Evans has lately returned 
from a religious visit to the meetings of Purchase and West- 
berry Quarterly Meetings, in the State of New T York. Thus 
thou mayest perceive the Lord's servants are not wholly 
unemployed. Thou hast probably heard thy mother and I 
have been to Greenwich. We understood that our friends 
George and Mary Mickle had such a visit in prospect, and 
were willing to take us in their carriage. We accordingly 
went to Woodbury [Eleventh month 6th], the Sixth-day be- 
fore Salem Quarterly Meeting, lodged at George's, and the 
next day went to Greenwich. A very unpleasant occurrence 
marked the evening of our arrival. One of our horses had 
exhibited marks of indisposition before we reached Green- 
wich, and died about an hour after our arrival. * * On 
First-day we attended Greenwich Meeting; dined at John 
Sheppard's, where we made our home, and in the evening 
took tea with John E. and Margaret. On Second-day our 
kind friends George and Mary left us, and returned home to 
be at the funeral of James Saunders, who died of consump- 
tion. We staid at Greenwich until Third-day, paying some 
agreeable visits, and in the afternoon accompanied John and 
Mary to Mannington, near Salem, making our home at 
Jonathan Freedland's, whilst we continued in that neighbor- 
hood. Ann Eliza Yarnall seemed truly glad to see us. I 



1840.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



273 



attended Select Quarterly Meeting on Fourth-day, and both 
of us that for business on the day following. We dined at 
Elizabeth Miller's after the first, and Rhoda Denn's after 
the second. On Fifth-day afternoon George and Mary 
Mickle took us to Sculltown on our way home. Our visit 
to A. and S. Scull was very agreeable. We dined with our 
kind friends George and Mary at their farm-house near Wood- 
bury, and came home in the evening car. But for the loss 
of the horse, our whole excursion would have been peculiarly 
pleasant, as affording the opportunity of renewing our inter- 
course with many Friends to whom we are closely united, 
and particularly in noticing in some of them an increase of 
those fruits of righteousness which are to the glory of our 
Heavenly Father when brought forth in his obedient chil- 
dren. May such fruits abundantly appear in the case of my 
dear child and her companion in life ! 

On the decease of his mother, Rebecca Kite, T. K. made 
the following memorandum : " My dear mother departed 
this life Twelfth month 20th, 1840, in the seventy-sixth 
year of her age. Her piety was of a cheerful character ; 
although she had many trials to endure, her faith did not 
fail ; and near her close she spoke of the bright pathway 
before her. At another time she repeated the substance of 
the Psalmist's expression ' a broken and a contrite heart, O 
God, thou wilt not despise !' It was a satisfaction to me to 
have had my parents to reside with me for several years be- 
fore their departure, and a great comfort to believe that, 
through the mercy of God in Christ Jesus, they each found 
acceptance with Him, and have been joined to the company 
John saw, of whom it was said, ' These are they which have 



274 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1840. 



come out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes 
and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.' " 

T. K. TO JOSEPH EDGERTOX. 

Philadelphia. Twelfth month 16th, 1840. 

Dear Friend, Joseph Edgerton :— I have frequently 
of late remembered that I am in thy debt for a very accept- 
able letter dated Tenth month 29th. It not only strengthened 
the feelings of brotherly affection I entertain for thee, but 
communicated interesting information concerning the late 
Yearly Meetings of Ohio and Indiana ; so that I ought in 
common justice to endeavor to make some return, which I 
shall endeavor to do by giving thee some little hint of how 
we are getting along here. The Apostle James says " The 
fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make 
peace," but if it be true that the tree is known by its fruit, 
something of a very different nature has been sown amongst 
us, and what that has been thou are well aware. But little 
change has recently occurred ; yet I hope that little is favor- 
able, and that some Friends are less unkind in their feelings 
than they were ; but there are others whose minds continue 
uncomfortable. 

One effect of the present state of things I particularly re- 
gret. Most of our elders are quite aged, and there are no 
doubt gifted men and women in younger life, who might 
usefully be placed in that important station, if it could be 
done in the unity, of which at present there seems no cer- 
tainty. But the cause is the Lord's, and He can make a way 
where no way appears, in his own time, and enable his de- 
pendent children so to wait upon Him, that patience in them 
may have its perfect work. We are not, however, forsaken ; 
the dear Master frequently is graciously pleased in our solemn 



1840.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



275 



assemblies to afford us a token for good, by the manifestation 
of his immediate life-giving presence, as well as by qualify- 
ing his servants and handmaidens to speak well of his ex- 
cellent name. He has also, as I believe, been turning his 
hand upon the little ones to prepare them for his own service; 
and several of these in different parts of our Yearly Meeting 
have recently come forth in a public testimony to the Truth. 
* * * Our friend Elizabeth Evans has gone to pay a 
religious visit to the families of - Haddonfield and Chester 
Monthly Meetings in New Jersey. Lydia Dean, of the City 
of New York, is engaged in a similar visit to the families of 
the Southern District Monthly Meeting. Thomas and Eliza- 
beth Robson were lately heard of at Charleston, South Caro- 
lina. John Warren and Samuel Taylor passed through this 
place lately on their way to North Carolina. Our boarding 
school at AVesttown is largely supplied with scholars for the 
present session. It has 131 boys and 121 girls. We are 
favored with suitable teachers, not only as regards literary 
acquirements, but, we hope, they mostly are concerned for the 
religious welfare of the pupils ; and a comfortable hope is 
entertained, that the institution is fulfilling what our friend 
Thomas Scattergood had a prophetic foresight of, many 
years ago : " This," he said, " is a plantation that the Lord 
will water." May the Divine blessing rest upon it and upon 
your similar undertaking. We are making efforts to have 
our select school for boys, in this city, more thoroughly what 
is desirable. That for girls, has for several years very much 
answered our desires. My dear mother has for some time 
been in a declining state of health. She appears to be draw- 
ing towards her close. I mentioned to her that I was writing 
to thee, and she said, " Give my love affectionately to him, 
and tell him I expect to see him no more !" She seems in a 



276 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE 



[1840. 



clear, calm and resigned state ; waiting for the summons that 
shall call her hence. Her sufferings have been great pom 
a disease of the heart, combined with dropsy and erysipelas ; 
but she has been mercifully preserved in patience. My wife 
also desires her love, as does my sister Mary and daughter 
Rebecca. 

Sarah Hillman, the daughter of the widow mentioned in 
thy letter, was at my house yesterday. Her health is deli- 
cate, yet she is alive in the Truth, and at times much favored 
in her public ministry. My nephew by marriage, James R. 
Greeves, who accompanied our dear friend Jacob Green to 
his own habitation, has returned ; and gives a pleasant ac- 
count of the peaceful state of his (Jacob's) mind. Yet he is 
not eating the bread of idleness, having commenced a visit 
to the families of six Particular Meetings, composing the 
Monthly Meeting of which he is a member. 

With love to dear Benjamin Hoyle, your respected com- 
panions, Wm. Green and his daughter, who was at our select 
school, I remain in the fellowship of the Gospel, thy friend, 

Thomas Kite. 

The death of John Comfort is felt as a great loss, he being 
in the prime of his usefulness ; also Josiah Reeve, although 
he was much older. They were each substantial elders. 



1841.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



277 



CHAPTER XV.— 1841. 

LETTERS — YEARLY MEETING — EDITH JEFFERIS RECOM- 
MENDED AS A MINISTER SEVERAL LETTERS SAMUEL 

BETTLE AND NATHAN KITE VISIT OHIO AND INDIANA 
— WILLIAM EVANS VISITS NORTH CAROLINA — RACHEL 

c. bartram's DEATH. 

Thomas Kite, Jr., having purchased a foundry and 
machine shop in Cincinnati, Ohio, his father thus wrote to 
him on the occasion : 

" Philadelphia, First month 12th, 1841. I have no doubt 
of thy industry, frugality and attention to business, and yet 
a few hints may not improperly be offered for thy considera- 
tion. 

In carrying on the important business thou hast under- 
taken, keep such an oversight as to be acquainted with all 
its parts, and particularly with the account books. How- 
ever trustworthy anyone may be whom thou employs, a per- 
sonal knowledge appears to me indispensable. 

Keep a distinct cash book ; and let it be balanced at least 
twice in every week ; my practice when in business was to do 
it daily. Always examine whether the cash on hand corres- 
ponds with the balance. 

Let no piece of work leave the premises without the requi- 
site entry having been first made. A personal inspection 
will detect errors in quantity or price. 

Avoid leaving balances due and uncollected. Sometimes 
a considerable sum is absorbed in this way. My master was 
accustomed to say that more money was lost from not asking 
for it when it might be had, than from any other cause. 
Some people feel a delicacy about asking for money due 



278 



OIB OF THOMAS KITE. [1841. 



them, that seems rather out of place. It ought always to be 
understood that men are at liberty to claim what they are 
justly entitled to. In making collections, be sure to call at 
the time mentioned by the debtor. 

A bill book should be kept, and it might be well to have 
a memorandum book, containing for daily inspection, an 
account of payments to be made, as well as important busi- 
ness to be attended to. 

Make it a practice to be punctual in thy own payments, or 
if unforeseen contingencies render it impracticable, pay a part 
on account, and ask as a favor an extension on the balance. 

I scarcely need express my confidence, that whatever may 
be thy press of business, thou wilt endeavor so to arrange it, 
as not to interfere with the attendance of religious meetings ; 
but I would just hint my earnest w 7 ish that on these occa- 
sions thou may est be favored to leave the world and all its 
concerns at home, and through the fresh extendings of Divine 
love and mercy, be made and preserved a living worshipper. 
I have no doubt thou wilt continue plain and exemplary in 
thy personal appearance and language ; and I earnestly desire 
that thy whole conduct and deportment may be in corres- 
pondence with it. Examples of uprightness in bearing these 
and the other precious testimonies committed to our forefathers, 
are much needed in the present day. 

TO THE SAME. 

Second month 8th. 
John L. Smith heard to-day of the decease of his sister 
Deborah, which has been looked for, for some time. There 
is reason to believe she made a good end, having appeared 
increasingly serious for some time. We have had a minister- 
ing Friend with us for some days, named Mead Atwater, 



1841.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



279 



from the neighborhood of Lockport, New York, with Benjamin 
Bowerman for companion, an Elder from near Rochester. 
They seem both worthy and humble-minded men. Dost 
thou remember Wm. Wetherill, the lame lad at West-town ? 
He appears to be in the last stage of consumption, and w 7 ill 
probably die to-night. His conduct in some respects has 
been unguarded, but there is good ground to hope he has been 
favored to experience repentance and a change of heart, 
through redeeming love and mercy, and now seems quietly 
to wait for the great change. 

One of the inmates of Thomas Kite's family thus writes to 
his daughter Rebecca, under date of Second month 22nd, 
1841. 

" John L. Smith seems to be clad with his usual cheer- 
fulness, nearly. Last evening, after reading, and a short 
silence, thy father spoke to us, C. W. being one of the com- 
pany, of his young friend Deborah Smith, who, he felt a 
comfortable evidence, had been prepared for, and joined to 
that happy number who in heaven are enjoying their Saviour's 
countenance. He said that for some time before her close, 
she had secretly been maintaining the warfare against the 
corrupt part which could not inhabit glory. He pressed the 
necessity of our making ready for the change, as she had 
done, and particularly craved for her brother, that he might 
be more in earnest, as we know not when the messenger 
would arrive at our door." 

T. K. TO SON THOMAS. 

Third month 12th. 
* * * Having written so often of late, I seem to have 
little more to add, excepting the expression of the warm 



280 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1841. 



desire I fee] for thy preservation. Many are the clangers, in 
the most sheltered situations, which attend our passage 
through the present world. May thy attention be 'kept close 
to the heavenly Pilot, that so thou may avoid the rocks and 
quicksands on which so many strike and perish, and at last 
attain the port of everlasting peace. 

During the Yearly Meeting this year, Thomas Kite mani- 
fested much concern in the various subjects coming before 
it, speaking briefly at various times with much life and 
power. On Sixth-day morning he adverted to the great 
number of valuable Friends who had recently been removed 
from the church militant to the church triumphant ; and 
stated his belief there were several such with us, who would 
never again assemble with their friends in this capacity. He 
then expressed his concern that those upon whom the burden 
was now beginning to rest, and on whom it would shortly 
more fully devolve, might be rightly prepared to fill their 
allotted stations in the church.* 

T. K. to e. s. f. « 

Fourth month 12th, 1841. 
I received thy kind letter, but various circumstances have 
hitherto prevented my making the acknowledgment ; and 
now I am principally induced to write to let thee know that 
we have room for thee at our approaching Yearly Meeting. 

* # ;{c 

It is natural for us to look forward to this interesting oc- 

* Of those present at this Yearly Meeting on the men's side, who 
deceased before the next annual gathering, the following Ministers 
and Elders were a part — Davis Richards, Samuel Atkinson, Thomas 
Stewardson and Jesse Spencer. 



1841.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



281 



casion with some degree of solicitude, and with secret desires 
that the right thing may prevail, and the mourners be com- 
forted ; and if all who attend come with serious minds, and 
are favored to keep their places, we may hope that the wing 
of Ancient Goodness will again be spread over us. 

I was quite interested in thy account of Martha Smith's 
expressions, and should have been glad to have heard some 
further particulars. It is, indeed, a great mercy that her eyes 
were so far opened as thy letter represents ; it would have 
been still more agreeable to have heard of penitential ac- 
knowledgments. Se veral of the separatists have been favored 
to see their error, and have of latter time returned to us, of- 
fering satisfactory papers of condemnation. There have 
been two such cases in the Western District, one in the 
Southern, one at Uwchlan, and another in Burlington Quar- 
terly Meeting. There is also a female in this city who has for- 
saken their assemblies, attends ours, and manifests a serious 
mind, who has not yet made an acknowledgment. 

T. K. TO MARTHA JEFFERIS. 

Fifth month 28th. 
Dear Sister* — * * * This has been a week of con- 
siderable interest as regards our Monthly Meetings. On 
Third-day, Joseph Snowden was nominated to the Monthly 
Meeting of which he is a member, an elder, and the meeting 
united with it. Elizabeth Pitfield and Sarah Hillman were 
each set at liberty to attend Rhode Island Yearly Meeting, 
and Joseph Snowden to accompany them. On Fourth-day, 
Hannah Allen was appointed assistant clerk of her Monthly 
Meeting. The same day, at an adjournment of the Western 
District Monthly Meeting, the case of Rebecca Collins was 
considered, and she recommended to the Select Quarterly 
19 



282 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1841. 



Meeting as a minister ; and yesterday I was furnished by 
our Monthly Meeting with a minute to pay a little debt of 
gospel love within the limits of Baltimore Quarterly Meeting. 

It has been a comfort to me that cousin Edith [Jefferis]'s 
case was resulted in so satisfactory a manner.* I hope, dear 
child, she will be preserved in an inward attention to the 
puttings forth of the Good Shepherd, and that she may be 
enabled to bear with patience those baptisms w T hich the fruit- 
bearing branches must partake of. I hear she is now with 
thee ; if it be so, salute her in my name, as also dear Rebecca 
Biddle. I hope the health of the latter is so far restored as 
to permit her to fulfil her duties without oppression. 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

Baltimore, Sixth month 16th, 1841. * * As I suppose 
thy mother to be absent from home,f I have concluded to 
write a few lines to thee, informing how we have fared. We 
had a pleasant passage to this place on Seventh-day [12th], 
and were kindly received at Hugh Balderston's. On First- 
day we attended meeting, morning and afternoon, and took 
tea at William Proctor's. On Second-day, w T e went to Gun- 
powder, distant about eighteen miles, having a hired horse 
and dearborn; the horse was lame, and travelled slowly, 
otherwise our journey was agreeable. The country diversi- 
fied with hill and dale. We put up at Thomas Scott's, and 
had an appointed meeting yesterday with Friends and others, 
to pretty good satisfaction. In the afternoon returned to 
this city by another and more beautiful route, calling on our 
aged friend, Ann Poulteney, who resides a few miles out of 
town, and taking tea with her and four of her daughters. In 

* Recommended as a minister. 

f Gone to Muncy, on appointment of the Quarterly Meeting. 



1841.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



283 



the evening I met with a friend from Hopewell, with whom 
I have made arrangements respecting the more distant parts 
of my prospect. This afternoon the Select Quarterly Meet- 
ing occurs ; to-morrow that for business ; and on Sixth-day 
we expect to take the railroad car for Winchester, Virginia. 
I seem to have very little to say, but thought my family 
would like to hear from me. I do not wish to return before 
my service is fully accomplished, but when it is, I believe I 
shall endeavor to be with you speedily. With love to the 
whole family, I am thy affectionate father. 

In this visit he was accompanied by James R. Greeves. 
A brief description of the close of this visit will be found in 
the following letter to his daughter Susanna : 

" Philadelphia, Seventh month 1 6th, 1 841 . Dear daughter. 
Did it occur to thy recollection that this is thy father's birth- 
day ? I am now 56 years old, and have abundant cause to 
acknowledge that goodness and mercy have followed me all 
my life long. May my closing years, w T hether few or many, 
be more devoted to the service of my Divine Master than 
those which have passed ; and may my children be fully 
given up to serve Him in their day. They will find Him, 
as the faithful have ever found Him, to be the best of Masters. 
Thou, my dear child, art now coming a little forward in his 
service. May He guide thee by his counsel, preserve thee 
in humility, strengthen thee to fulfil his divine will, sanctify 
thee by his truth, and prepare thee for his heavenly kingdom. 

I would have given thee some particulars respecting my 
late visit, but supposed cousin James would do it more fully 
by word of mouth, than I could by my pen. We travelled 
nearly five hundred miles, and I was at meeting but seven 
times, viz., twice at Baltimore, on a First-day ; at Gunpow- 



284 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1841. 



der, on Third-day ; at Select Quarterly Meeting, on Fourth- 
day, and the meeting for business, on Fifth-day ; at Hope- 
well, in Virginia, on the First-day following, and at Goose 
Creek the next day. After which we returned home by way 
of Baltimore, and the railroad, it being the first time I ever 
passed between that city and our own by land. On the 
whole, I had a comfortable hope that I was in my proper 
place; and though much weakness is apparent amongst our 
Friends, yet evidence was renewedly furnished that the Lord 
hath not forgotten to be gracious, but is extending his secret 
calls and visitations to the different branches of our still 
favored, although in the parts I have visited, greatly reduced 
and scattered Society. 

I was not very well whilst absent, nor for some weeks after 
my return. Jesse Spencer has several times invited us to 
pay his family a visit, so, in hopes it ; would prove beneficial 
to my health, thy mother, sister Rebecca and I, concluded 
to go to Gwynedd on Fourth-day week. On Fifth-day we 
attended their week-day meeting ; and in the evening Jesse 
took us to his brother George's, at Moreland. We found the 
latter expecting to go next morning to Frankford, to attend 
the funeral of Jonathan P. Knight, and Jesse and I con- 
cluded also to go. It was largely attended ; and Sarah Hill-' 
man was strengthened at the grave, pertinently to address 
those who were present. We returned to Moreland, took 
tea at Charles Spencer's, a cousin of Jesse, where w r e met thy 
mother and sister, and called at Samuel Spencer's (a brother 
of Charles) on our w 7 ay to George's, from w T hence we returned 
the same evening to Jesse's. Seventh-clay morning I walked 
to see Phebe Roberts, Hannah Williams' married daughter, 
who has, of late, appeared at times in the line of the ministry. 
In the afternoon we went to her mother's, at Plymouth, where 



1841.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



285 



we took tea, and returned home by the Norristown railroad, 
arriving in the city before dark. I think I was benefitted 
in my health by this little excursion." 

During his visit in Virginia, T. Kite called at the dwell- 
ing of a minister, an honest, simple-hearted Friend, who lived 
in great simplicity. Soon after his return he received the 
following letter from his late host, viz. : 

" Dear friend. — Thy little visit to our habitation was so 
pleasant, and 'has left so sweet a feeling upon our minds, that 
I feel as though I cannot be satisfied without expressing it. 
I am thankful thou wast not discouraged from it, as it made 
our hearts glad, under a belief that the Great and Good 
Master inclined thee to it. I hope thou wast favored to 
reach home with the reward of peace, for having paid the 
little debt which, no doubt, was due from thee to Baltimore, 
and some other meetings. The church here is not in a very 
flourishing state, the world having engrossed the minds of 
too many of our members, who seem to forget that they owe 
themselves, and all they are favored with, to the goodness 
and mercy of their Heavenly Father. Oh ! when will this 
strange and unnatural course of life be exchanged for one of 
gratitude, of love. For myself, I trust I can say, I had 
rather see the kingdom of the Holy Jesus gaining ground in 
the hearts of the people, and so spreading over the nations of 
the earth, than to enjoy all the honors and pleasures of a 
transitory world. Truly the peace He bestows upon those 
who humbly endeavor to follow Him, and keep his com- 
mandments, is superior to everything else. 

Well, dear Thomas, remember me and mine before the 
Father of Mercies, and pray for us, that we may be made 
more and more partakers of the love of God and the com- 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1841. 



inunion of the Holy Ghost, and continue therein to the end. 
Affectionately thy friend, S. F. B," 

In regard to this journey, Thomas Kite made the follow- 
ing short memorandum in his Diary : 

" Having obtained the requisite permission of the Monthly 
Meeting, in the Sixth month, 1841, I visited nearly all the 
meetings composing Baltimore Quarterly Meeting, having 
cousin James K. Greeves for companion. Although many 
painful feelings attended, and the state of our religious So- 
ciety was low in most places, yet I was favored to get 
through mostly to my relief. A fear, however, attended, 
that in the latter part of the engagement, the desire of get- 
ting home was too much given way to. May it operate as a 
• caution on future occasions." 

Thomas Kite, Jr., having paid a visit to his relatives in 
Philadelphia and its neighborhood, returned home to Cincin- 
nati, taking Niagara in his way. Soon after his departure, 
his father addressed to him this letter. 

Philadelphia, Seventh month 19th, 1841. 
Dear Son : — I cannot avoid feeling some degree of anxi- 
ety respecting thy homeward journey, and am looking for- 
ward with solicitude for a letter announcing thy arrival in 
thy adopted city. I trust a merciful Providence has watched 
over thee for good, and that thy Heavenly Father has pur- 
poses of kindness in store for thee, if thou art willing to bow 
to the visitations of his Holy Spirit. The disappointments 
He permits to befall us, all pleasing and all adverse allot- 
ments, health or sickness, poverty or riches, may be made 
subservient to our best interests, if our hearts are set on Him. 
All things shall work together for good to them that love 
God. I felt an unusual solicitude whilst thou wast lately 



1841.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



287 



with us, that thou may not rest satisfied short of the experi- 
ence of that change of heart which is described in the Scrip- 
tures as a new birth, — regeneration. In order to this, thou 
must deny thyself of everything the Divine Light discovers 
to be wrong. Thou must take up thy cross daily, and en- 
deavor to follow the Lord Jesus in the way of his leadings. 
I have great confidence in thy outward conformity to the 
rules and testimonies of our Society. I am thankful I can 
feel as I do in this respect, confidence in thy morals; confi- 
dence in thy rectitude as a man of business. But if thy 
Heavenly Father should show thee that greater circumspec- 
tion is needful in some particulars, give heed to his Divine 
intimations. With respect to the society of young persons, 
I am not informed on what footing social intercourse is car- 
ried on in Cincinnati ; but in some places a manner prevails 
that is too free, bordering on levity. There may be an op- 
posite extreme, of too great reserve, but it is a safer one. 
Young women should be treated with great respect. I think 
there has been a great improvement in this respect with the 
}^ounger members of our Society within my memory, — I mean 
in country places. I hope it will extend to every part of it, 
for sure I am, our principles lead to the adoption of whatso- 
ever things are pure, excellent, lovely, and of good report. I 
have poured out my feelings without premeditation ; the drift 
of it all is, I wish to see thee a consistent Christian, a living, 
baptized member of the Church ; one that in public assem- 
blies, and in private retirement, has access to the Living 
Fountain of pure spiritual refreshment. Be not discouraged 
from persevering, if the attainment should seem difficult ; 
through many tribulations the righteous enter the kingdom ; 
the prize at the end of the race is worth all the sacrifices we 
can make to obtain it. This is the prize — -this is the promise : 



288 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1841. 



eternal life, — happiness without alloy and without end ! But 
let us always connect with the consideration of these impor- 
tant subjects, that solemn admonition, " Without holiness no 
man shall see the Lord." 

SAME TO SAME. 

Eighth month 16th. 
Thy travels to the Falls, and description of it, we have 
become acquainted with. Do not forget to tell us how thou 
fared in getting home. Our Kebeeca Walton is in expectation 
of setting out to-morrow morning for Mount Pleasant. She 
has for company our old friend, Jane B. Temple, &c, &c. 
Thou hast, no doubt, heard of the burning of the steamboat 
Erie, on the lake of the same nanae, with the appalling loss 
of life. It has raised thankful emotions that a kind Provi- 
dence watched over our beloved son, and led him in 
safety to his distant home. May it be increasingly thy con- 
cern to live to the glory of his great name ; and this can only 
be done as thou art willing to bring thy outward conduct 
and inward thoughts and desires to the test of that Divine 
Light, wherewith thou and all men are enlightened, by its 
assistance to discover w 7 hat the Lord's controversy is against, 
and by his Divine aid, to put it away. 

Extracts from letters of T. Kite to his brother Nathan, 
whilst the latter was with Samuel Bettle attending Ohio and 
Indiana Yearly Meeting. 

Ninth month 5th. " Thomas B. Gould accomplished his 
marriage on Third-day. The meeting was remarkably 
solemn. The newly-married pair, with Thomas' sister and 
Martha's mother, departed for their residence on Sixth-day. 
We were last evening invited to the funeral of our cousin, 



1841.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



289 



Isaac Jones, which takes place to-day at Germantown. Edith 
and I are about starting to attend .it." 

Ninth month 12th. " Samuel Bettle, Jr., has gone with 
Regina Shober to Exeter, which meeting, I believe, she 
omitted on her way to Bellefonte. William Evans has found 
a pair of horses, and proposes to set off next Sixth-day, after 
the Meeting for Sufferings. He expects to take Goose Creek 
and Hopewell Meetings on his way south,* of which I am 
glad. Thou art aware, perhaps, that John Wilbur has had 
a severe attack of pleurisy since his limb was fractured. Dost 
thou remember to have heard of his daughter Foster, a min- 
ister ? It seems she has a son of uncommon promise, who has 
lately appeared in testimony, in his thirteenth year. He 
commenced with, ' This is a faithful saying, and worthy of 
all acceptation, that Jesus Christ came into the world to save 
sinners, of whom I am chief/ " 

T. K. TO MARTHA JEFFEKIS. 

Ninth month 28th, 1841. 
* * * I do not expect to attend the examination [at 
Westtown], but have thought of being at the school in time 
to meet the Committee on Instruction on Fifth-day evening, 
" Smith Upton and Sarah B. Thompson are proposing to take 
each other in marriage on Fifth-day next. My wife and I 
are appointed to attend on that occasion. Wm. Evans and 
Jeremiah Hacker were heard from yesterday ; they had 
reached Goose Creek, in Virginia, and were in comfortable 
health. 

Ebenezer Roberts was in the city last week, attending our 
Monthly Meetings. He was more extensively engaged in 
ministerial labors than I have heretofore known him to be ; 

* To visit the meetings of North Carolina Yearly Meeting. 



290 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1841. 



his visit was acceptable, he being an honest-hearted Friend. 
I note thy remarks respecting the uncertainty of thy pros- 
pects after thy engagements at the school shall terminate. 
There is no use in straining our eyes by endeavoring to see 
in the dark. Be encouraged to keep fast hold of the anchor 
of faith ; wait on the Lord, and He will in his own good 
time open a way. To be where He would have us to be, 
and to be doing or suffering what He would have us to do or 
suffer, ought to content us ; because as his will is our sancti- 
fi cation, that state of purification He designs for us, can only 
be attained in the resignation of our will to his. Dear sister, 
I do not write these things as new, but simply because they 
arose as I was writing. I trust He who has been with thee 
from early life, and strengthened thee to bear the burden 
and heat of the day, will continue so to be to thee a Father 
and a Friend, until thou hast finished thy allotted portion of 
labor, and art prepared to take thy flight to the land of rest. 

On the evening of Tenth month 3rd, a religious opportunity 
took place in T. K/s family, which one of those present thus 
describes : " Our dear father appeared in supplication, first, 
for the female head of the family,* who was soon for a season 
to be separated for the service of Truth from those who are 
near and dear to her ; he interceded that she might be 
strengthened and supported ; that though she might go forth 
weeping, she might return with rejoicing. Then for S. L., 
that she might perform the duties of her responsible station. 
Then for all the rest, that those who had entered the narrow^ 
way might continue on ; and that judgments mixed w T ith 
mercy, might follow those who had not." 

* Edith Kite was about starting on the Quarterly Meeting's Com- 
mittee to Muncy, &c. 



1841. ] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



291 



T. K. TO HIS BROTHER NATHAN. 

Tenth month 14th. 
Thy letter written at the close of Indiana Yearly Meeting 
has been duly received. * * * I cannot remember 
whether I mentioned the death of our friend Jesse Spencer, 
of dysentery ; it occurred the very day he w 7 as to have started 
for Tunessasah with Robert Scotton and Joseph Elkinton. 
The tw r o latter have since started. * * * Uncle John 
Letch worth has been again indisposed, but is better. My 
wife, and all the Quarterly Meeting's Committee except* 
Phila. Pemberton and me, have gone to Muncy. * * * 
Smith Upton and Sarah B. Thompson w r ere duly married, 
and we were favored with a solid good meeting. Elizabeth 
Evans ministered to us.* The company was orderly. Caleb 
Pierce, Sally 1ST. Dickerson, Edith and I. were overseers. 
Yardley Warner and Hannah Allen were married yesterday. 
They spoke more audibly than the former couple. Indeed 
I know not that I ever heard the ceremony more feelingly 
pronounced. Elizabeth Evans ministered also on this occa- 
sion. She is to set out on her visit to the meetings of Abing- 

* One of T. K.'s neices writing of this meeting to her uncle Nathan, 
says : " We had a very good meeting indeed the day they were mar- 
ried ; very much to my satisfaction. E. Evans gave us one of her 
very best sermons, commencing with, ' He that loseth his life for 
my sake shall find it.' It was a very tender and affectionate appeal 
to the young people present, especially to the visited of the Lord, to 
be willing to lay down their life in worldly things for the sake of 
their dear Lord and Saviour. Uncle Thomas appeared in supplica- 
tion, in the course of which he was led to petition for those who had 
just covenanted together, that they might be enabled to keep their 
covenants, &c. It was a solemn time ; and the parties spake as if 
\ they deeply felt the solemnity of it." 



292 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1841. 



ton and Bucks Quarters on Second-day next. In this por- 
tion of her service, she is to be accompanied by Margaret 
Shoemaker and Samuel B. Morris. Rebecca Hubbs passed 
through the city yesterday to visit the same meetings. We 
hear comfortable tidings of Wm. Evans and Jeremiah 
Hacker. At the last account they had nearly reached Ten- 
nessee. We hear from Aaron's to-day, that Ennion Cook 
has deceased ; but have received no particulars. I went to 
Westtown last week to attend the Boarding School Com- 
mittee ; it was a comfortable meeting, but rather smaller 
than usual. The examination at the close of the session was 
favorably reported of. Martha Jefferis has been with us 
two nights. James and Sarah Emlen have called, and divers 
of the teachers [being vacation]. * * * This day at our 
meeting Mary Hinsdale,* from New York, spoke to us, and 
Rebecca Collins was engaged in prayer. * * * It is 
pleasant to think that the time will soon be here when we 
may expect you. * * * It is not likely we shall write 
again, so with desires for thy safe return, improved in bodily 
aud spiritual strength, I conclude, remaining thy affectionate 
brother. 

T. K. TO HIS WIFE. 

Tenth month loth, 1841. 
* * * Wm. Kennard took tea with us on First-day, 
after attending our meeting, in which he was silent. He 
seems to be a solid, valuable Friend. I hear T. and E. 
Robson are in town on their way to Baltimore Yearly Meet- 
ing. I have not seen them. Hannah Warrington, Jr., has 
a minute to attend North Carolina Yearly Meeting. * * * 
Nathan gives an account of Indiana Yearly Meeting. Some 

*See an account of her, page 73, as Mary Eoscoe. 



\ 



1841.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 293 

excitement prevailed on the abolition question, arising from 
a minute introduced by the Meeting for Sufferings against 
opening Friends' meeting-houses for lectures ; noticing also 
Joseph Sturges' letter, and Arnold Buffing-ton's paper, and 
one other. The meeting adopted the minute of advice, and 
ordered it to be inserted in the printed minutes. Samuel 
and Nathan are expected home about the time of our Quar- 
terly Meeting. * * * I am endeavoring to bear thy 
absence as well as I can. The belief that thou art in the 
way of thy duty in going, and the hope that I have not im- 
properly remained at home, serves to alleviate the trial of 
thy absence. I desire that we may each be preserved in 
watchfulness, and, if favored to meet again, that we may in- 
creasingly become each other's joy in the Lord. 

T. K. TO EDITH JEFFERIS. 

Philadelphia, Tenth month 25th, 1841. 
Dear Cousin : — Notwithstanding way has not opened 
lately to address thee by letter, thou hast lived in my remem- 
brance ; and I am not aware that the affectionate interest I 
have long felt in thee and thy concerns, has suffered the 
least abatement. I believe thou art in the school of Christ, 
in which many lessons are to be learned, and some of them 
humiliating and mortifying to the flesh ; but if we are at- 
tentive scholars, we shall be instructed even by our misses ; 
the corrections of our kind Master will be administered in 
love, and all our varied exercises will be blessed and sancti-. 
fled to us, and we shall more and more perceive that to act 
in the meekness, simplicity and obedience of little children, 
is the way to obtain Divine favor and approbation. We 
shall also learn, that it is not needful to be much cast down, 
when we fail to obtain the approval of our fellow mortals ; 



294 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1841. 



yet we cannot at times but feel, particularly if anything that 
seems hard to bear, comes to us from those we love. It is 
evident that the Psalmist had a sore struggle on this account. 
" It was not an enemy," he says, " that reproached me ; then 
I could have borne it ; neither was it he that hated me that 
did magnify himself against me ; then I would have hid my- 
self from him ; but it was thou, a man mine equal, my guide 
and mine acquaintance : we took sw T eet counsel together, 
and walked to the house of God in company." Many since 
the days of the Psalmist have had their trials from those 
they loved, and have been wounded in the house of their 
friends. But it is through all, the privilege of the Lord's 
children to know they have an unfailing Helper, who bindeth 
up their wounds, and causeth all things to work together for 
their good. Well, whatever may befall thee, trust in Him, 
and wait upon Him, and He will send thee help from his 
sanctuary and strengthen thee out of Zion. * * * 

I don't wish improperly to draw thee out, but may simply 
say, that when thou feels like writing, thy communications 
will be acceptable to thy affectionate uncle. 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER SUSANNA. 

Philadelphia, Tenth month 25th, 1841- 
* * * \y e h ac [ J hn Cox, aged nearly eighty-eight, at 
our meeting yesterday, who spoke on this text, " Say not thou, 
the former days were better than these, for thou dost not inquire 
wisely concerning this." He seemed lively and instructive. 
The latest intelligence from William Evans and companion, 
was contained in a letter from the latter, dated at Knoxville, 
Tennessee. They have a laborious and trying service ; have 



1841.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



295 



met with very bad roads, and had to leave their horses to 
rest, whilst a friend furnished them with others. * * * 
Third-day morning. Samuel Bet tie and thy uncle Nathan 
returned last evening in good health. We welcomed the 
latter cordially. All the city Friends of the Quarterly 
Meeting's committee returned last evening, excepting thy 
mother. She has gone to Cerestown, accompanied by Enos 
Lee, Ellen McCarty and Henry Ecroyd. 

T. K. TO MARTHA JEFFERIS. 

Eleventh month 8th, 1841. 

* * Our aged friend, John Cox, has been paying a visit 
to his daughter Susan, and has attended our meeting divers 
times, and ministered to us acceptably. Considering he is 
now in his eighty-eighth year, he is remarkably bright and 
intelligent. H. Warrington, Jr., has gone to North Carolina 
Yearly Meeting, accompanied by Lydia Stokes and Benjamin 
Albertson. The meeting of business was to commence to-day. 
Very favorable accounts continue to be received from Wil- 
liam Evans and Jeremiah Hacker. It is not likely they will 
return home before the First month. * * * 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

Eleventh month 10th, 1841. 

* * I write in haste, but before I conclude, I may ex- 
press the earnest solicitude I feel, that wherever thou art, and 
in whatever useful way occupied, the Divine blessing may 
rest upon thee. I have not the shadow of a doubt thou art 
designed to be made a vessel in the Lord's house. Submit, 
then, w T ith cheerful resignation to those dispensations which 
are designed to break down thy own will, and prepare thee 



296 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1841. 



for the Lord's use. Then wilt thou be able to say with the 
devoted servant of the Most High, "I am crucified with 
Christ ; nevertheless, I live ; yet, not I, but Christ liveth in 
me, and the life which I now live in the flesh, is by faith in 
the Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me." 

SAME TO SAME. 

Eleventh month 12th. 

* * I expect to be at the school to-morrow week, and 
should be glad to see thee settled and feeling in thy proper 
place by that time. Such a feeling reconciles us to trials and 
privations. It is a precious promise, and one that we may 
lay hold of, if conscious that amidst all our weaknesses, we 
are desiring above everything else, to please our Heavenly 
Father, " All things shall work together for good to them 
that love God." I feel towards thee not only the Sowings 
of paternal affection, but something else, I humbly trust, of 
gospel love, and not merely desire thy advancement in the 
best things, but have been enabled to believe that by various 
dispensations of his love and mercy, thy Divine Master is 
preparing thee to surrender thy own will to his blessed will, 
and to give thyself up to be, or to do, whatever He may as- 
sign thee in his church and family. Then be thou faithful 
unto death, and He will give thee a crown of life. 

At our meeting yesterday, B. Wyatt Wistar and his friend 
accomplished their marriage. Many spectators were present, 
but it was not so much unsettled as such occasions often are. 
* * Our dear friend, Sarah Hillman, was present, and 
ministered suitably, to which H. L. Smith made some addi- 
tion. The young folks spoke distinctly, and kept to the 
orthodox form, " loving and faithful," 



1841.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



29.7 



When Hannah Warrington, Jr., left Philadelphia for 
North Carolina, Thomas Kite addressed a brotherly saluta- 
tion to William Evans, and one to his companion. The one 
to the latter was as follows : 

" Dear friend :— I felt much unity with thee in thy giving 
up to the service of accompanying our beloved friend in his 
arduous engagement for Christ's sake and the Gospel's. I 
intended to have called at thy house to manifest it, but was 
hindered. It has rested on my mind as a debt due thee, to 
make this known to thee, and therefore I take up my pen 
to convey to thee some of my feelings, as thou hast many 
times since leaving home been brought to my remembrance. 
I have no doubt it was a close trial of thy faith to leave thy 
wife, children, and business, for so long a time ; and I have 
no doubt thou dost experience other trials of thy faith, in 
part on thy own account, in part in sympathy with dear 
William, and in a still greater degree in beholding the in- 
roads the enemy has made upon our Society. With regard 
to thy trial in leaving home, remember, for thy encourage- 
ment, the promise of the dear Master : Matt., 19 chap. 29 
verse, ' And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, 
or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, 
for my name's sake, shall receive an hundred fold, and shall 
inherit everlasting life.' As respects the trial thou mayest 
meet with, in relation to thy own state, it is said, ' All things 
shall work together for good to them that fear God.' For thy 
companion thou hast done much more than give a cup of 
water, having, I have no doubt, beside cheerfully waiting on 
him, yielded him the sympathy of thy spirit, and endeavor- 
ing, according to the ability received, to go down with him, 
even unto the bottom of Jordan, whilst he was preparing to 
bring up stones of memorial ; and, therefore, thou mayest 
20 



298 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1841. 



surely take hold of the comfort of our Lord's address to his 
disciples, when sending them forth to preach the Gospel of 
the Kingdom, ' Whosoever shall give you a cup of water to 
drink in my name, because you belong to Christ, verily I say 
unto you, he shall not lose his reward.' With regard to the 
church, though it is painful to mark the desolations the 
spirit of the world has made, yet we must believe the Lord 
is watching over it for good ; ' I, the Lord, do keep it,' &c, 
and He may, by blessing the faithful labor of devoted ser- 
vants, and by the immediate operation of his own blessed 
Spirit, turn our captivity as the streams in the south." 

WILLIAM EVANS TO T. KITE. 

Eleventh month 12th, Boarding School, IS". C. 
Dear Friend : — It is very cordial to receive the evidences 
of the remembrance of our home friends, and their affection- 
ate desires for our preservation every w 7 ay, — among which was 
thy acceptable token of brotherly regard, by B. Albertson. 
We thought and spoke of our own Quarterly Meeting, at the 
time we supposed it was sitting ; and I felt the trust and per- 
suasion that the Good Shepherd was with you ; and I know 
there are not a few in our beloved city who desire the honor 
of his name and the exaltation of his cause, more than any 
earthly thing. These are bone of my bone ; and my secret 
breathing to the Lord, while far separated, is, that we 
may be more and more firmly planted in his house, and be 
made instrumental in gathering the dear children to Christ, 
and presenting them with increasing beauty and perfection 
in Him. It is his will, I believe, that w T e should labor fer- 
vently to persuade our fellow members to lay aside every 
hindering thing, and to come up nobly to the help of the 
Lord against the mighty, and He will bless the sincere pray- 



1841.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



299 



ers and labors of his upright and dedicated children. My 
love was never stronger towards my dear, faithful friends in 
Philadelphia; and it is a comfort to believe, fhere is a little 
band who are united in the Truth and in the fellowship of 
suffering, and who long to see the ancient standard lifted up 
by a rising generation, that the Great Name may be magni- 
fied, and others may flock to it, and own the Truth as it is 
in Jesus. We have had various fare in different places. 
Thou knowest it is a pleasant thing to hand forth the conso- 
lations of the Gospel when the spring is opened for those 
who are prepared ; but to be dipped into the state of life- 
less outside professors, without being able for a long period 
to come at anything of the quickening power, is hard for us 
poor creatures to endure. And when this does appear, the 
kind of service is often very different from what we would 
make choice of. But we have good cause to speak well of 
our Lord and Master, who has many times given evidence 
that his sustaining hand was underneath, strengthening us 
to labor in his love to draw the hearts of the people unto 
Him. And when He withdraws, for the trial of our faith, 
we cannot but mourn for his return, and sometimes fear lest 
we should now be left, and our emptiness be discovered by 
others. 

We are now staying at the boarding school. A pretty 
large company. Old Nathan Hunt is here ; he looks quite 
patriarchal, and maintains a strong interest in the con- 
cerns of the Society. He is determined if in his power, no 
innovation shall appear upon the simplicity of the dress and 
manner of wearing the hair among his people. He called 
out yesterday in the Yearly Meeting, " What a pity ; that a 
child of a Friend should be going up the gallery steps w 7 ith a 
frock-tailed coat on !" He often, refers to the Prophet Isaiah's 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1841. 



denunciation of many articles of dress, and says he believes 
many of the present day are as opposite to the Divine Will 
as these. * ^ * I hope a little discrimination will be 
granted and continued amongst us whatever may be said of 
our standard. There are, I believe, notwithstanding their 
easy way, some well concerned men ; and I think their ap- 
pearance has generally improved since my first visit. Could 
the boarding school be rightly sustained by the members 
sending their children in larger numbers, it would have a 
direct beneficial influence on Society in these parts. Indeed, 
it has already done good by imparting instruction to many 
who would perhaps have obtained none, and it keeps the com- 
mittee and other members frequently employed in its concerns, 
and thus their attention is necessarily drawn to the subject of 
education. It would be a great loss were it permitted to go 
down, and more especially as the spirit of migration has 
nearly subsided, and the Yearly Meeting is believed to have 
been on the increase several years. Notwithstanding sickness 
has prevailed in several parts around this neighborhood, and 
it was expected to be a discouragement to Friends coming to 
it, yet the present Yearly Meeting is considered the largest for 
many years. The conduct of the young men has been marked 
with sobriety, generally keeping their places during a session 
of four to four and-a-half hours, and on benches without 
backs. I know there are many discouraging things here ; 
but are we to let our hands hang down and conclude nothing 
is to be done ? or is it not rather better to arouse one another 
up to his portion of the labor to bring about a reformation ? 
Much may be done by the willing-hearted, wdien they set 
about in good earnest to examine in the light of Truth their 
own state, and then through Divine help to build the wall 
against their own houses, and encourage others to do the 



■ 



1841.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



301 



same. I believe Friends have been stimulated to renewed 
efforts to pay off the school debt, and it is now reduced so 
that there appears very little doubt it will be effected in the 
course of the year. This Yearly Meeting has decided to 
close the door against children not members ; in favor of 
doing which they had the united voice of all the visitors, 
who sat with the committee appointed to deliberate on the 
matter. I cannot but hope the cause of education is gaining 
sure ground in this country, and that the present meeting 
will give force to it. Jeremiah and I enjoy good health ; 
and to-morrow (Seventh-day), expect to pursue our journey 
to the meetings, commencing with Deep Run. 

D. and A. Clark have received and treated us with 
marked kindness ; assisted us in laying out the route. They 
are Quakers of the original stamp, and are not carried off 
with mere words. Love to thyself, wife and to M. and N. 

Jeremiah desires me to acknowledge the receipt of thy 
letter, and wishes his love communicated. 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

Eleventh month 23rd, 1841. 
My Beloved Child : — * * * I feel very tenderly 
for thee, having left thee not quite well ; and although. I 
have not looked for its being anything more than a slight 
indisposition, yet it will be pleasant to receive the assurance 
from thy hand that so it turned out. * * * The Apostle 
Paul lays great stress upon faith, as thou may est remember. 
It is a Divine gift ; yet keeping close to the little grain of 
it received, endeavoring to walk by it and humbly asking 
for its increase, we may become strong in it, even as Abraham 
and other holy ancients did, together with many in times 
nearer our own. I think it is another apostle who exhorts 



302 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1841. 



believers to add to their faith many excellent Christian 
qualities, amongst which is patience : and if amidst the 
vicissitudes of this mortal state, we are favored to keep hold 
of faith, and to add thereto patience, other needful graces 
will not be wanting ; and we shall not only be strengthened 
in our endeavors to do all things to the glory of God, but 
shall learn with the apostle I have first alluded to, in all 
states to be content. It is a difficult lesson to learn, but to 
the sincere disciple not impossible. Let us never forget who 
it is that rules in heaven and amongst men — that superin- 
tends and orders all events— without whom not a sparrow 
falls to the ground ; and remembers the hairs of our head. 
Let us endeavor to commit the keeping of our souls to Him 
in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator. Then all the events 
of this fluctuating state will be blessed and sanctified to us, 
and be made helpful in the great work of preparing us for 
the coming change, when this corruptible shall put on in- 
corruption, and this mortal shall put on immortality ; when 
shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, " Death 
is swallowed up in victory." The greatest foreign news is 
an account of the burning of the Tower of London, involving 
great pecuniary loss, as well as the destruction of many 
objects of historical interest." 

SAME TO SAME. 

Eleventh month 26th. 
* * * Mary M. Sheppard and her brother Mark are 
in the city ; he proposes returning to Greenwich to-morrow, 
and leaving her here for a few days. She looks more unwell 
than I expected to see her ; but I hear she is somewhat im- 
proved this evening. Thou art aware that I feel much 
interested in her, believing her to be one of the visited chil- 



1841.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



303 



dren of the family, for whose preservation and advancement 
I have long travai]ed in spirit. It is a comfort to believe 
there are many such in our day ; but we know the enemy is 
very busy, endeavoring *to draw them aside from the right 
way of the Lord, or at least hinder their advancement therein. 
May the Good Shepherd care for these ; by the crook of his 
love recall them, if their hearts should wander for a moment 
from Him, exercise his righteous discipline upon them, and 
prepare them for his own work and service, and after they 
have fulfilled their course in dedication to his will, admit 
them into everlasting habitations. 

SAME TO SAME. 

Twelfth month 8th, 1841. 
I arrived in safety at home about one o'clock, and found 
thy aunt Mary very much improved in health ; John L. 
Smith feeling better than he has for two months ; thy uncle 
Nathan out as usual attending to his business. So thou 
seest, things on the whole look favorable as it regards my 
own family ; but I found a most affecting incident had oc- 
curred in my absence. Our friend Rachel C. Bartram was 
walking with her sister Ann Richards, and near the corner 
of Fifth and Race Streets they were both run over by a horse 
that had previously thrown his rider. I do not learn amidst 
various statements exactly how it occurred ; but the former 
was much injured, her scull being broken, and in about 
twenty minutes she expired. It does not appear she was 
conscious of anything after receiving the hurt. Her sister 
Ann was considerably bruised, her head cut, and her arm 
broken in two places ; yet she is likely to recover. It is an- 
other affecting instance of the uncertainty of life, and conveys 
an admonition to survivors to be in a state of readiness to meet 



304 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1842. 



the solemn close. I regret that the time fixed for the in- 
terment is Sixth-day afternoon, at the very hoar when the 
Boarding School Committee are to assemble. As she was a 
member of it, a number of the Frieftds belonging to it would 
have felt interested in attending her funeral. * ' * * On 
looking back over my last visit it seems pleasant, and a hope 
is felt that the committee were in the line of duty in being 
at the school. My interest in the institution continues un- 
abated, and my sense of the weight of responsibility resting 
on the teachers as great as ever. I do earnestly desire that 
thou mayest be strengthened to discharge thy portion of the 
labors and care with uprightness, and with a single eye to 
the Divine glory ; seeking to the Lord every day for strength 
to avoid right hand errors and left hand errors ; and to be 
preserved from even the appearance of evil. Then wilt 
thou at seasons have to partake of that joy with which the 
stranger does not intermeddle. 



CHAPTER XVI.— 1842. 

FAMILY LETTERS — DEATH OF ROBERT LETCHWORTH 

NOTES OF A FAMILY SITTING AT THOMAS KITE'S — 
LETTERS. 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

First month 7th, 1842. 
Our cousin Robert Letch worth has been very ill ; and al- 
though he is thought to be better he can scarcely be con- 
sidered out of danger. Thy aunt Mary is assisting in nursing 



1842.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 305 



him. Our Board of Overseers [School Corporation] met 
this afternoon to distribute amongst poor housekeepers the 
income of a legacy of J. Jones and some other bequests. We 
had about two hundred and eighty dollars, and divided it 
amongst 115 persons, in proportion as we thought their 
necessities required. * * * There will be some glad 
hearts from this little bounty. We had at our meeting on 
Fifth-day, Charles Collins, of New York, n^ted as a Hicksite. 
He told me he had been at the North and Western Meetings ' * 

also. There was likewise a female preacher of the same 
Society present, who is understood to be very uneasy with 
the situation amongst them ; she w T as silent and sat far back 
in the meeting. Tell thy aunt Martha that the Daniel S. 
Dean, whose decease is mentioned in the present number of 
" The Friend," is the same person, noted formerly as a minis- 
ter, who lost his right in Society. After remaining in that 
situation for many years, he sought and obtained restoration 
in advanced life ; and I believe was thought to be sincere in 
his love to Friends. He was uncle to our friend Lydia Dean. 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER SUSANNA. 

First month 7th, 1842. 
* * * E. Robson is visiting families in the Western 
District Monthly Meeting. Her husband accompanies her. 
William Evans and Jeremiah Hacker have returned from 
their long journey, and appear to be glad to be again with 
their families. It seems, from their account, that in places 
where they have been, and especially so in Tennessee, Friends 
live in great rusticity, their children are acquiring very 
limited schooling, and their wives have to work very much ; 
Jeremiah thought, in some instances, harder than slaves. It 
is to be wished some change could be produced. William 



306 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1842. 



thinks, if the boarding school could be efficiently sustained, 
and money raised to school some of the poorer children, 
great good might be effected. We shall be pleased to see 
cousin Edith in the city on her way to Greenwich. 

It is well we can love the young folks so heartily ; it lightens 
our labor on their behalf, and parents may lawfully look 
forward to the time when, if life be spared, their offspring 
will be better able to appreciate the care and pains bestowed 
upon their infant years. A mother's duties are arduous ; if 
faithfully performed, it is not alone a peaceful consciousness 
of Divine acceptance is her enriching portion : " She looketh 
well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread 
of idleness; her children arise up and call her blessed." 
Mayest thou be favored to imbue the minds of the tender 
lambs with a love for all that is excellent, just and true ; 
and in days to come, see of the travail of thy soul on their 
account, and be satisfied. 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

First month 17th, 1842. 
Cousin Edith [Jefferis] remained with us until Sixth-clay 
afternoon, when I accompanied her to Woodbury. We 
lodged at George Mickle's, and had Rebecca Pike and her 
daughter with us in the evening. In the morning, after see- 
ing Edith safe in the Greenwich stage, I went to Joseph 
WhitalPs. He has been quite poorly, but seems a little 
better ; yet on the whole is like a breaking-down man. The 
Church has been so stripped of late, that it is not pleasant to 
think of the removal of such a pillar.* I returned home on 

* " Joseph is very much tried that some people who appear as 
heads in our Society, should openly declare the opinion, that our 
Society has very much fulfilled the design for which it was raised 



1842.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



307 



Seventh-day afternoon. We hear that Abigail Richards 
has been removed from amongst us. She was on a visit to 
a married daughter, when she was taken ill, and remained 
there until her decease. I suppose she was buried yesterday 
at Darby. Our friend Ann, the wife of Joseph R. Jenks, 
died to-day ; her disease, dropsy. So the generations of 
mankind pass successively away. Thrice happy are they, 
who are rightly prepared for their exit. May it be increas- 
ingly thy concern, my dear child, to be thus prepared, by 
constantly abiding under the influence of that Grace which 
brings salvation ; seeking daily for ability to do thy day's 
work in the daytime ; so that when the midnight cry an- 
nounces the coming of the Bridegroom, thou may est not be 
alarmed, nor unprepared to meet his approach with joy. 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER SUSANNA. 

First month 25th, 1842. 
I have been frequently at the late residence of our late 
kinsman R. Letchworth since his decease. The members of 
his family seem tried, yet conscious it will not answer so to 
give way to grief, as to incapacitate them for exertions which 
are needful to obtain a livelihood. Uncle John Letchworth 
seems tranquilly awaiting his dismission from this scene of 
trouble ; yet there is nothing in his present state to forbid 
the hope on the part of his friends that he may see another 
summer, and again sit with them in a religious assembly. 

* * * [After mentioning the death of , the letter 

continues :] But though the Church is stripped in many 
places of those who have stood as standard bearers in their 

up ; and that it is not much matter how soon it goes down. Such 
sentiments were delivered at a late Quarterly Meeting." Extract of 
a letter dated First month 17th, 1842. 



308 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1812. 



day, I have faith to believe others will be raised up to fill 
their places, as faithfulness is kept to by the visited children ; 
and that the doctrines and testimonies which were dear to 
our forefathers, will not be without defenders in our day. I 
do feel anxious at times that my own children may be of 
this number, and be prepared to partake of the goodness 
that the Lord will dispense to his heritage. For " the Lord 
will comfort Zion, He will comfort all her waste places. He 
will make her wilderness like Eden, her desert like the 
garden of the Lord ; joy and gladness shall be found therein, 
thanksgiving and the voice of melody." 

During the visit which Edith Jefferis paid in the city, to 
which reference has been made in the preceding letters, several 
religious opportunities occurred at places where she and her 
uncle Thomas were together. One that took place at Thomas 
Kite's residence, at which the members of his family were 
generally present, Charles Sheppard's family, and Anna 
Garrett, is thus described in a letter : — 

" I came in about nine o'clock, and found them sitting in 
silence. After a time Edith commenced speaking. Her 
mind had been exercised on account of some one or more 
present. She addressed them as being in a tried, disconsolate 
state ; as having in times past acknowledged Christ before 
men, but now flinching from the cross. In this connection 
she commented on the weakness even of those who loved the 
Lord Jesus in measure. She exhorted these individuals to 
faithfulness; declaring that if they were obedient, some of 
those of whom they were now afraid, would have cause to 
glorify God on their account ; but warned them, that for 
further continued disobedience, they would experience still 
greater distress and suffering of spirit than they had ever 



1842.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



309 



endured. She afterwards spoke a few words, expressive of 
her belief, that the Church although in a wilderness state, 
was kept there in safety, and would be brought forth again 
in ancient brightness, through individual faithfulness. Thy 
father [T. K.] then addressed us ; exhorting to faithfulness, 
without looking out at others and saying, ' What shall this 
man do V " 

T. K. TO HIS SON THOMAS. 

First month 29th, 1842. 

* * * Very trying scenes to our men of business, and 
the community generally, seem approaching. There are 
those amongst us, who wish our banks broken up, and if they 
succeed in their wish, we cannot foresee the whole conse- 
quence, though, it is evident, many whose means of living 
arise from bank dividends will be greatly straitened, and 
some perhaps may be reduced to poverty. It may be, such 
a state of things may have been permitted to come upon 
this land, as a chastisement for our sins. It will be well for 
us individually to inquire in our own breasts, how far we 
are clear. To the Christian there is a consolation in remem- 
bering that the Lord reigneth ; that He can rule and over- 
rule, so as to promote his own glory, and the good of his 
dependent children. " Surely the wrath of man shall praise 
thee," says the Psalmist, "and the remainder of w T rath thou 
shalt restrain." 

I wish not to tire thee with advice ; there is that Divine 
Guide in thy own heart, placed there by thy Heavenly Pa- 
rent, which, if attended to, will preserve thee from evil, and 
lead thee in the way everlasting. Permit me to recommend 
to thee a close attention to its pointings and its restraints, 
particularly as it regards the company thou keeps, and the 



310 MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1842. 

books thou reads. If ever thou shouldst incline to marry, 
consult this precious Guide before thy affections become en- 
gaged. Remember, a companion for life may influence thy 
character and prospects, not for this life merely, but also for 
eternity. I received a message from Margaret White the 
other day, saying in substance, that she understood thou wast 
diligent in attending meetings. I suppose she thought it 
would be pleasant to me to hear it. I had no doubt it was 
the case before I received her message, but I accepted it as a 
token of her good-will and sympathy with a parent separated 
from his child. 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

First month 31st, 1842. 
* * We understand that Elizabeth Pitfield, and her 
coadjutor, Sarah Hillman, are proceeding in the weighty 
service of visiting the families of their own Monthly Meeting. 
Joseph Snowdon is their male attendant. Perhaps thy let- 
ters of last week informed thee, that Elizabeth Robson had 
a prospect of a similar service within the limits of the South- 
ern District Monthly Meeting, but way did not open in the 
meeting to encourage her to proceed. * * The subject of 
a new nomination of elders, was weightily before our late 
Monthly Meeting, and a joint committee of men and women 
separated to attend to the concern. I feel very solicitous 
that a single eye may be kept by all the members of that 
committee, and by the members at large, to. the pointings of 
the Great Head of the Church, that so evidence may be fur- 
nished who is gifted by Him for this responsible service. We 
have just heard of the decease of our friend, George Jones, 
the husband of Ann, which is said to have occurred after an 
illness of only three days. * * [After referring to an ex- 



1842.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



311 



isting excitement about the banks, he continues] : But there 
certainly is a place of quietude under every storm, to be at- 
tained by the devoted Christian, whose confidence is firm in 
the everlasting truth, " The Lord reigneth." * * May my 
dear children, with myself, be increasingly engaged to love 
and serve Him in our generation, and count nothing too dear 
to be parted with to evidence our gratitude to Him who loved 
us before we loved Him. And if the impression is made upon 
the mind at times, that a full and entire surrender of our own 
will yet remains to be effected in us, may we seek unto Him 
who hath all power, for ability to be faithful unto death, the 
death of the first nature, knowing the old man with his deeds 
to be crucified and slain ; that thus we may be prepared to 
partake of that spiritual resurrection which those witness who 
have been planted with their dear Redeemer in the likeness 
of his sufferings and death. 

When Thomas Kite resigned the printing business at the 
close of 1833, into the hands of his brother Joseph, and his 
son William, he had property, the income of which was suffi- 
cient comfortably to support his family. He held some real 
estate, but the bulk of his property was in bank, railroad and 
canal stock. He soon found difficulties connected with his 
real estate, which induced him to sell it, and invest the pro- 
ceeds, except a portion left on mortgage, in " stock.'' As 
the difficulties in the mercantile community consequent on 
the " war against the banks," began more and more to be 
felt, Thomas Kite perceived the value of his stocks gradually 
diminishing, until, about the time the above letters were 
written, his, property had been reduced to about one-third of 
its value when he retired from business. Those of his friends 
who had known his frugal and economical habits, now looked 



312 



MEMOIR. OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1842. 



for some visible token of depression or sorrow at his great 
losses, but they looked in vain. He felt, as the letters we 
have just quoted testify, that "the Lord reigneth," and that 
his Omnipotent Arm could and would direct all things for 
the good of his dependent children, and in this belief he was 
enabled in sincerity to say, " Thy will be done." He occa- 
sionally spoke of going into business again, but .the way did 
not open in his own mind for it ; aud as he found by having 
a few young friends boarding in his family, he could live 
without reducing the principal of his stock, he waited in 
trustful hope for better days. Time passed on ; stocks rose 
in value ; banks declared dividends, and so did some of the 
railroads ; and at the time of his decease, his income was 
nearly as great as it had ever been, notwithstanding he had 
lost several thousand dollars by the failure of debtors and 
the breaking up of the United States Bank. 



CHAPTER XVIL-1842. 

LETTERS VISIT TO NOTTINGHAM QUARTERLY MEETING — 

THOMAS KITE, JR.'s LONG ABSENCE FROM HOME — VISITS 
BUCKS QUARTERLY MEETING. 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

Second month 7th, 1842. 
* * Though I have been fatigued with a long Quar- 
terly Meeting, which brought on a considerable headache, 
yet feeling somewhat relieved this evening, I take my pen to 
give thee some account of things that I suppose will interest 



1842.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



313 



thee. First, thy little nephew [William's son Thomas] is 
very poorly, and his parents seem much discouraged about 
him. I know not what they call the complaint, but at pres- 
ent he seems to be sinking under it. Thy aunt Mary has 
gone to spend the night with him. There have been several 
affecting instances of the uncertainty of human life amongst 
our friends lately: On Fifth-day morning, about o o'clock, 
Joseph Ely died suddenly. He was awake and conversing 
with his wife a few minutes before. She heard him take a 
long breath, and he was at once insensible ; and before 
Charles Roberts, who was immediately sent for [a few doors 
off] could get to his house, he was dead. The afternoon of 
the same day, Asa Walmsley's daughter Ann, died almost as 
suddenly. She had been in poor health, was on a visit to the 
city, and had just parted with a friend, who had called on 
her, when she passed away to another state of being. And 
lastly, on Seventh-day afternoon, our friend, Peter Thomson, 
was called away. His health had been declining for some 
weeks, but he mostly went into his office, and spent a part of 
the last day in it, transacting business. I understood, that 
in signing his name he remarked, that he thought it was the 
last time he should do it. He walked into his chamber, and 
was about to prepare to undress, when he died, sitting in his 
chair. Both Elizabeth and her daughter Hannah have been 
unwell, and this unexpected stroke is a close trial. 

SAME TO SAME. 

Second month 11th. 
* * From the tenor of a part of thy letter, which we 
received by yesterday's stage, I infer thou wilt not be sur- 
prised to hear of thy little nephew's decease, which took place 
on Fourth-day morning, a few minutes after six o'clock. 
21 



314 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1842. 



* * After being laid out, in order for interment, the corpse 
looked very sweet, and like one asleep ; a smile seemed set- 
tled on the countenance, as if he had a pleasant dream. 
The funeral took place yesterday afternoon * * in the 
Arch street ground. * * Thy brother and sister seem af- 
fected with the loss of their little darling ; but there are so 
many considerations to alleviate sorrow T in the case of a child 
dying in infancy, that I have no doubt they will become re- 
conciled to the stroke. 

T. K. TO REBECCA WALTON. 

Mount Pleasant, Ohio, last of 2nd month, 1842. 

* * * j hope when thou art joined in outward mem- 
bership to the Monthly Meeting of Short Creek, thou mayest 
become a true burden-bearer, and be increasingly joined to 
the living amongst them in Gospel fellowship, and in concern 
for the advancement of the cause of Truth, and the support 
of our Christian testimonies and discipline. Also that thy 
whole spirit, conduct and conversation, may evince thee to 
belong to the dear Saviour, that thus, w T hether a long or short 
life should be allotted thee, in our Heavenly Father's provi- 
dence, thou mayest be prepared for the everlasting inheritance. 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

* * * About going to the wadding ; I leave it en- 
tirely to thy uncle N. S. [Superintendent at Westtown,] and 
thyself to settle ; only suggesting my wish, that wherever 
thou goest, thy concern may be unabated to stand approved 
in his sight, of whom it is said " The Lord is a God of knowl- 
edge, by Him actions are weighed." 

Fourth-day noon. I heard yesterday that Sarah Emlen 



1842.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



315 



and cousin Edith were to have a meeting at a factory near 
Leiperville this afternoon and would probably be at Chester 
Meeting to-morrow. * * * [They had a minute to ap- 
point meetings in their Quarter.] I notice what thou sayest 
of thy spiritual state, but have little to say on that subject. 
I believe thy Heavenly Father designs thee for his own use, 
but many humiliating baptisms are needful to break down 
thy own will, and bring all within into conformity to his. 
Keep inward to Him, and He will turn his hand upon thee, 
and purely purge away the dross, and take away all thy tin. 
In the process of effecting this, much anguish of spirit may 
be thy portion, but endeavor patiently to bear it ; meanwhile 
whatever seems to be required, whether it be in the way of 
doing or forbearing, endeavor to be an obedient child. 
Whilst it is profitable to feel our weakness, yet it is not so 
to plead our consciousness thereof as an excuse for dis- 
obedience. To sum up all in a few words, remember the 
promise, " Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee 
a crown of life." 

SAME TO SAME. 

Third month 23rd, 1842. 
I went on Seventh-day, in company with Mary R. Car- 
penter and her daughter Rachel, to the funeral of our friend 
Rachel Bullock. It was largely attended, and I believe was 
satisfactory. She will be much missed, not only in her 
family, but in the meeting and neighborhood. She was 
favored with a calm and composed mind near her close, and 
could see nothing in her way in looking towards the ever- 
lasting state of happiness. Elizabeth Pitfield and Sarah 
Hillman have concluded their visit, with the exception of 
one family, in which there is sickness. They appear to have 



316 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1842. 



been helped through their arduous service. In sitting with 
Sarah yesterday, I remembered the dear Master's question to 
some of his earlier laborers, and their reply, believing she 
could unite with them therein ; " When I sent you forth 
without purse or scrip, lacked ye anything ? and they answered, 
Nothing, Lord." 

The Yearly Meeting seems near at hand ; and some exer- 
cise begins to be felt by concerned Friends, that everything 
may be conducted at that season, to the praise of the Great 
Helper of his people. With the salutation of my love, and 
the renewed desire that thou mayest be kept faithful to the 
discoveries of the blessed Truth, and that all things may 
work together for thy good, through the Divine blessing, I 
conclude. 

About this date, T. K. received a letter from his daughter 
Susanna, containing the following passages : — 

" Although contented in our allotment, we cannot but feel 
anxiety in regard to the disturbed state of public affairs ; 
and many thoughts are sent towards my dear friends in the 
city, whom I fear may be involved in difficulty ; particularly 
you, my dear parents, whose days for active exertion seem 
to be drawing to a close. It will seem very trying, if you»r 
means for a comfortable subsistence should fail. It is a day 
of perplexity and trouble, but perhaps for the salt's sake, a 
preserving Hand may be outstretched still ; may He over- 
rule these troublesome times for good !" 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER SUSANNA. 

Third month 25th. 
We received thy letter by David Garrett last evening. It 
is always pleasant to hear from our children, and thy expres- 



1842.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



817 



sion of solicitude on our account, in these remarkable times, 
was satisfactory. Another bank has closed its doors, in 
which I own a number of shares ; yet I do not feel cast 
down. A merciful Providence has hitherto sustained and 
protected me, and I endeavor peacefully to rely upon Him, 
trusting that He will make a way for me. Our men in 
business find many difficulties to encounter. The banks 
which have resumed specie payments appear to be sustaining 
themselves. So much for worldly matters. This morning 
thy cousin R. Walton had a letter from thy brother Thomas, 
containing the first intimations of his movements we have 
had since he left home.* It w 7 as dated the twelfth of last 
month on board a steamer bound down the river Mississippi. 
He seems to have been much interested with his voyage, 
but we are anxious for later intelligence. Three of the 
elders [of our Yearly Meeting] have deceased within a short 
time, Margaret Shoemaker, widow of Charles, of Abington ; 
Rachel Bullock, of Wilmington ; and Elizabeth Cooper, 
wife of Benjamin, who w T as buried yesterday at Newton, 
near Camden. Such removals often awaken the desire that 
younger Friends might be favored to bow to the Power that, 
as submitted to, " would purely purge away their dross, and 
take away all their tin," and prepare them as successors in 
the Church militant, to those who have finished their work, 
and are safely landed in the realms of light and everlasting- 
peace. * * * 

Extracts from T. K.'s Diary, Fifth month, 1842. 

" I obtained a minute in the Fourth month to visit the 
meetings composing Nottingham Quarterly Meeting. I set 
off on Third-day, Fifth month 10th, and went to the house 



f He had left Cincinnati to go to New Orleans to collect a debt. 



318 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1842. 



of my son-in-law, Aaron Sharpless, where I lodged. The 
next day attended Birmingham Meeting, where my wife's 
nephew, Joshua Jefferis, was married to Bachel Hoopes. 
Way opened to set forth the nature of the Gospel dispensa- 
tion, in contradistinction to the outward ceremonies and ob- 
servances of the law. I had to treat of the Lord's supper, 
as being altogether inward and spiritual. I was told after 
meeting, that a person was present who had joined in mem- 
bership with the Roman Catholics. In the afternoon I went 
to London Britain, where my brother-in-law, Joshua Sharp- 
less, readily agreed to accompany me to the meetings I had 
in prospect. On Fifth-day the 12th, we rode to the house of 
Joseph Balance, Little Britain. That afternoon we attended 
the Select Quarterly Meeting, which began at three o'clock. 
I went home with a friend, who is a widow, and had a reli- 
gious opportunity with her and her two daughters. On Sixth- 
day [13th], we attended the Quarterly Meeting. It is com- 
posed of very few members. Best Help was near, strength- 
ening to extend an invitation to the various classes present, 
to gather to the place of waiting, that they might be favored 
to experience a renewed qualification to engage in the Lord's 
work. On Seventh-day morning [14th], we visited one, who 
on some offence taken at members of the meeting, wholly de- 
clined attending it, and had resigned his right in Society. 
We had an opportunity with him, in the presence of his wife 
and children, the latter being young. The same day attended 
an appointed meeting at Little Britain, for the members of 
that meeting — some professors with us, and a few others, 
being present. The subject principally treated of was, the 
doctrines of the Gospel, and the means employed by Divine 
Wisdom to bring mankind to the experience of that state of 
true poverty of spirit which is pronounced blessed by our 



1842.] 



MEMOIR. OE THOMAS KITE. 



319 



Lord. After an opportunity at J. B„'s, where we had lodged, 
we set off for Deer Creek, crossing the river Susquehanna at 
Connewingo bridge. At Darlington we found Elisha Cook, 
waiting to conduct us to his house, where we lodged. On 
First-day [the 15th], we attended Deer Creek Meeting, where 
the doctrines of the Christian religion as held by us, were 
opened to a mixed auditory. After a religious opportunity 
in the family of Dr. T. Worthington, where we dined, we 
set off for Nottingham, passing the river over a bridge near 
Port Deposite. We lodged at William Waring's ; and the 
next day [16th] attended an appointed meeting at West 
Nottingham, made up of Friends and others, wherein spirit- 
ual worship, and true Gospel ministry, were set forth, and 
various states spoken to, principally some who were in a dis- 
position to put off to a more convenient season their obedience 
to manifested duty. We dined at T. Levering's, and had an 
opportunity in his family, his married son and wife being 
present. In the afternoon we went to see a friend, who had 
indulged a spirit of hardness towards some of his fellow- 
members, until it had induced him very much to decline the 
attendance of religious meetings. We had a heart-tendering 
opportunity with him, his family being present. Among his 
children is a tender-spirited, religiously-concerned daughter, 
who seems likely to become a useful member of our Society. 
We returned to William Waring's to lodge, and the next 
morning [17th], after a parting opportunity with the family, 
we set off homewards. We called on a family who had sepa- 
rated from Friends at the time of the great division ; after 
leaving them, I was constrained to return and submit to have 
a religious opportunity. They willingly made way for it ; 
and the way of salvation by Jesus Christ w T as preached to 
them. Reached J. Sharpless's to dinner, and paid some 



320 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1842. 



social visits in the afternoon. Had a family sitting with 
Edward Sharpless and wife. Lodged at his father's. The 
next day [18th] paid several visits; and on Fifth-day morn- 
ing [the 19 th], had an opportunity with George Sharpless 
and his wife, in which counsel and encouragement were 
offered to them. Then proceeded to London Grove to attend 
the Western Quarterly Meeting for Ministers and Elders. 
At our first sitting down it was a low, suffering season, 
which continued for a time ; but a little light springing up, 
strength w T as afforded to comfort the mourners. Our friend 
Caleb Pennock, aged about ninety-one years, and green and 
lively in his old age, was enabled to speak to edification, and 
the meeting ended well. Dined at Samuel Swayne's, and 
lodged at Joshua B. Pusey's ; the house lately occupied by 
his kinsman, Isaac Pusey, whose recent loss is severely felt 
in this part of the Society. I had a religious opportunity 
with the family in the morning, before proceeding to the 
Quarterly Meeting [20th]. It was a time of depression in 
the first meeting ; but at length an opening presented ; and 
standing up with it, I was enlarged beyond expectation. I 
w r ent to Aaron Sharp] ess's to lodge ; and the next day [21st] 
reached home, thankful for the preservations and help ex- 
tended to me during this journey/' 

Elizabeth C. Mason, Edith Kite, Thomas Evans and Wil- 
liam Hodgson, Jr., under appointment of the Quarterly 
Meeting, paid a visit in this month [Fifth] to the meetings 
of Muncy Monthly Meeting, and many of the families com- 
posing it. Whilst the committee was absent on this labor of 
love, Thomas Kite thus wrote to his wife : 

Fifth month 24th, 1842. * * "Elizabeth Hodgson 
kindly called on me yesterday with a message from thee, re- 
ceived in her husband's letter, which also gave information 



1842.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. . 321 

of the committee's attending Muncy Monthly Meeting. I 
was glad to hear of your proceedings, and of thy health. I 
hope whatever thy hands find to do, in the clear unfoldings 
of Divine Wisdom, thou mayest do it with thy might, not 
consulting with flesh and blood, but giving up to the heav- 
enly vision. I feel for you, believing the service you are 
upon to be arduous and important, and much desire that by 
keeping close to the safe Director and Preserver of his peo- 
ple, each one of you may return with the answer of peace. 
I feel particularly for dear Elizabeth, and hope this journey 
may prove strengthening to her, mentally and bodily ; and 
that henceforth she may do, as Paul says he was enabled to 
do, ' forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching 
forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the 
mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ 
Jesus.' " 

SAME TO SAME. 

Fifth month 27th. 
I received thy acceptable letter. I am truly glad to hear 
of thyself and company ; and desire the blessing of the Lord 
may rest upon you and upon your labors. In my absence, 
and probably before thou left home, brother Nathan wrote 
to Jabez Reynolds, inquiring what he had heard of Thomas. 
To-day he has an answer, by which it appears that J. R. 
had a letter dated Fourth month 16th, about a month later 
than we had previously been made acquainted with his pro- 
ceedings. He was then well, and in good spirits. A man 
indebted to him, but without other means of payment, pre- 
pared two vessels loaded with lumber, which our son accom- 
panied, and the proceeds of which, when sold, was to be paid 
to him. He was on the Mississippi, near the mouth of the 



322 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1842. 



Arkansas river. He may have written to us and his letters 
miscarried. There seems no other way, than to commit him 
to the protection of our Heavenly Father, whom we have 
each proved to be good and gracious. * * We under- 
stand William Brinton, and his more aged sister Mary 
Moore, deceased within two days of each other, and that 
their brother Moses Brinton, who is, I think, also older than 
William, w T as lately considered to be near the close of life. 

At our Monthly Meeting on Fifth-day, we had our friend 
William Evans very acceptably. He was afresh anointed to 
preach the everlasting Gospel in the first meeting, and in the 
second he made some suitable remarks. There was nothing 
of a very particular character in the business of our apart- 
ment, and we transacted what we had to a good degree of 
satisfaction. The minute of the Quarterly Meeting of Minis- 
ters and Elders, on the subject of the nominated elders, was 
with us, and as a matter of course, placed upon record. 

I have seen a copy of the charge exhibited against our 
friend John Wilbur, and am surprised, not only at the course 
taken, but at the grounds upon which the charge rests. 

SAME TO SAME. 

Sixth month 3rd. 
On Second-day I went to the Select Quarterly Meeting at 
Burlington. John Cox was not well enough to be present. 
I returned in the evening, and the next morning went thither 
again to attend the Meeting for Business. Our aged friend 
was at meeting, but did not sit to the close. The concern of 
S. Craft's wife to attend Ohio and Indiana Yearly Meeting, 
and some meetings within their limits, was united with, and 
she liberated to the service. I was satisfied with being there, 
believing I was in my right place. I lodged at Elizabeth 



1842.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 323 



Coleman's, and came home on Fourth-day. Having draw- 
ings to be at Gwynned Monthly Meeting, I went thither yes- 
terday, accompanied by Jeremiah Hacker. Ezra Comfort 
was engaged in the ministry, and I had something to com- 
municate. We dined at Hannah Williams's; visited E. 
Comfort's in the afternoon, and came to Jeremiah Hacker's 
place to lodge. On returning home this morning, I found 
an invitation to the funeral of Dr. Joshua Whitall's wife. I 
was much attached to Sarah Ann, and propose going to her 
funeral, which takes place this afternoon. She died of in- 
flammation of the lungs, as I understand, with only three 
clays' illness. Another solemn waruing is thus communi- 
cated, that we be found endeavoring to be prepared for our 
final summons. 

In a letter to his daughter R., of Sixth month 7th, T. K., 
speaking of his visit to Burlington Quarterly Meeting, says : 

" I walked out in company with my relation, Robert 
Thomas, to Hickory Grove, the late residence of the poet 
Samuel Smith, but now occupied by his sister, Hannah Mott, 
whose only son, Richard, being designed for a farmer, is 
there engaged in learning that business. It is a perfect wil- 
derness of plants, flowers and trees, having been neglected 
since the owner's death. Hannah and her son will have 
employment enough in reducing it to order. * * I found 
an invitation to the funeral of Doctor Whitall's wife, whom, 
perhaps, thou remembers as Sarah Ann Rogers. I had a 
friendship for her, believing her to be one of the travellers 
towards the heavenly Jerusalem; and being inclined to at- 
tend at the interment of her remains, I accompanied her 
relatives [John] Mickle and Mary Whitall, with their sister 
Hannah, thither. She was ill but three days, her disease, 



324 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1842. 



inflammation of the lungs. The day of her death was better 
to her than the day of her birth. The trials of life had been 
sanctified to her, and she found her merciful Saviour, in 
whom she was early taught to believe, was able to keep that 
she had committed unto Him against that day. She died 
triumphing in the faith. * ■ * * * 

I have been reading a pleasant memoir of a young Friend, 
Mary Ann Gilpin, who died at about twenty-five years of 
age. Part of her time was occupied in teaching ; and she 
seemed to dwell under a deep sense of the importance of 
making right impressions on the objects of her care. I have 
also the account of John Barclay, with copious extracts from 
his diary and from his letters. He was a lovely character ; 
and appears to have ripened fast in religious experience. 
He was a minister fifteen years, and closed his earthly course 
at forty-one — having been a bright example of Christian 
simplicity and devotedness — a burning and a shining light." 

The anxiety of T. K. and family respecting his son Thomas, 
continued to increase during the Sixth month. No informa- 
tion was received from him, and his friends at Cincinnati 
had almost lost all expectation of ever seeing him again, 
fearing he had fallen a victim to the unhealthiness of the 
climate about New Orleans, or to some of the casualties so 
common on the Mississippi river. The uneasiness of his 
friends was, however, happily dispelled. 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

Seventh month 4th, 1842. 
We were comforted this morning by receiving a letter 
from thy brother Thomas, announcing his safe return to 
Cincinnati. He speaks of having had a troublesome time, 
but thinks he was as successful in the business he went on, as 



1842.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



325 



could reasonably have been expected. * * * He seems 
thankful that he is amongst his friends once more ; and we 
feel emotions of the same character. I have written in order 
to relieve thy anxiety. * * * With affectionate desires for 
thy preservation from evil, and for thy growth and estab- 
lishment in the everlasting Truth, I remain thy father, &c. 

T. K. TO SON THOMAS. 

Seventh month 10th, 1842. 
* * * We have cause gratefully to acknowledge our 
Heavenly Father's care over thee, and to say with the patri- 
arch, " It is enough ; Joseph, my son, is yet alive." May we 
join thee in endeavoring to evince a proper sense of this, and 
every other mercy, by striving to live more entirely to the 
Lord ; and then we shall experience the truth of the declara- 
tion, " In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct 
thy paths." * * * Uncle John Letch wort h was at our 
meeting on Fifth-day and dined with us. Many of our 
Friends who sympathized with us in our anxious solicitude 
about thee, seem to rejoice in our glad tidings. With strong 
desires for thy future welfare every way, but more especially 
for thy growth in religious experience, through obedience to 
the manifestations of Divine Light in thy heart, I remain 
thy affectionate father. 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

Seventh month 19th. 
A member of the Hicksite Meeting at Salem, who has for 
some time been attending that of Friends, came a few weeks 
ago to this city, for medical aid, being much indisposed, yet 
not so as to prevent his attending our meeting, which he did 
diligently until last Fifth-day, inclusive. On First-day 



326 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1842. 



morning he was not well enough to go. In the evening I 
was sent for to see him ; on going I found that a sudden 
attack had deprived him of the power of speech, aud proba- 
bly of consciousness. I remained with him until his close, 
which took place twenty-two minutes past eight. From his 
anxiety to know his salvation Avrought out, his diligence at 
meeting, his intention to condemn his joining with the Hick- 
sites, the child-like simplicity of his mind, and the quiet he 
was favored to feel near the solemn winding up, I feel a com- 
fortable hope that all is well with his immortal spirit. * * 

Of the Quarterly Meeting, held Eighth mo. 1st, 1842, one of 
the family thus writes : — " Our Quarterly Meeting was rather 
remarkably comfortable for these times. Elizabeth Evans 
was soon on her feet with the language, ' Let not the mighty- 
man glory in his might, let not the rich man/ &c, showing 
that the true rejoicing of the Christian was not to be for the 
increase of wealth, knowledge, power, or any earthly good ; 
but in the Lord alone. She spoke of earthly possessions as 
fleeting, and that the enjoyment derived from them must 
fail. She had been reminded of two circumstances recorded 
in Scripture ; the first of which was that of the man whose 
idols of gold, and his priests on whom he depended, had 
been taken from him, ' They have taken away my gods and 
my priests, and what have I more.' This man's condition 
she contrasted with that of Habakkuk when he could say, 
'Although the fig tree shall not blossom, neither shall 
fruit be in the vine ; the labor of the olive shall fail, and 
the fields shall yield no meat ; the flock shall be cut off from 
the fold, and there shall be no herd in the stall ; yet I will 
rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of my salvation.' 
Hannah Gibbons followed in an affectionate exhortation to 



1842.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



327 



the youth to be willing to take the yoke of Christ, and be- 
come his followers. William Evans then powerfully addressed 
the youth, particularly the young men, on the necessity of 
bearing the cross, and becoming prepared to take the places 
of those who had been removed, or were about being removed 
from the Church militant. Thomas Kite addressed the aged, 
exhorted to faithfulness and perseverance to the last ; men- 
tioning the cases of Simeon and Anna, who having waited 
for the Lord Jesus, w T ere permitted in old age to speak of 
Him to all that looked for Him in Jerusalem. H. L. S. 
united with the last communication, and Mercy Ellis closed 
the opportunity with supplication." 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

Eighth month 9th, 1842. 
I got home comfortably on Fourth-day evening. Fiuding 
ourselves in time for Chester Meeting, T. E. and I stopped 
there and attended it ; and afterwards dined at J. J. Maris'. 
The railroad car brought me to the city in the evening. Thy 
mother and I, and A. N., attended Merion Meeting on First- 
day, where I saw our relation J^nn Wetherill, who said she 
had been at Westtown, and that thou wast in bed with an 
inflamed eye. Please get some one to write us by Fifth-day's 
stage, and let us know how thou art. T. and E. Robson are 
in the vicinity of the city, paying leave-taking visits to their 
particular friends. I believe they were on First-day at 
Woodbury. S. Grellet continues very ill, although his 
symptoms are perhaps somewhat less alarming. My dear 
child ; may every trial, bodily or mental, less or greater, be 
sanctified to thee. The great business of our lives, is to 
bring glory to our Creator and Redeemer, and to become 
prepared by the purifying operations of the Holy Spirit, for 



328 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1842. 



a blessed and happy immortality. That this may be thy 
experience, is the earnest desire of thy truly affectionate 
father. 

Extract from T. Kite's Diary. " Having for some time 
felt a concern to visit the meetings of Bucks Quarterly Meet- 
ing, I acquainted our Monthly Meeting therewith, in the 
Seventh month, and obtained a minute of its unity. Benjamin 
Albertson also had a minute to accompany me. We set off 
on Third-day, Eighth month 23rd, and went to James Moon's 
to lodge. The next day [24th,] we attended the Quarterly 
Meeting for Ministers and Elders. The language of the 
Psalmist was revived, 'In the multitude of my thoughts 
within me, thy comforts delight my soul ;' and the language 
of encouragement was handed to the Lord's exercised chil- 
dren. Lodged at J. M.'s ; and on Fifth-day [25th,] at- 
tended the Quarterly Meeting for business. In the first 
meeting, B. Cadwalader appeared in a short testimony, fol- 
lowed by my aged relative, John Letchworth : after which, 
out of a state of great weakness, I was enabled to set forth 
the necessity of bearing the^oke and cross of Christ. Eliza- 
beth Evans followed in a well adapted communication. 
Towards the close of the second meeting, William Evans 
was excellently engaged in pointing out the danger of de- 
generating into a form of religion, without life and power. 
Lodged at Samuel Comfort's ; and on Sixth-day [26th;] we 
had an appointed meeting at Middletown, having before 
meeting paid religious visits to the families of Mercy Stack- 
house and Jonathan Stackhouse, the latter not a member. In 
the meeting I labored according to the ability received for 
the everlasting welfare of those assembled. Here our young 
friend, Mahlon Moon, joined us, having a prospect of going 



1842.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 329 

with us to all the meetings, as a guide. We went to Mary 
Hulme's to lodge ; and had a religious opportunity in the 
family in the evening. On Seventh-day [27th,] we were 
at an appointed meeting at Bristol. I was engaged to open 
the state of man in the fall, with the means of his deliverance 
and redemption out of it, speaking also to various states and 
conditions. Dined at the widow Newbold's, who is much 
afflicted and nearly helpless with inflammatory rheumatism. 
Had a sitting with her, in which the language of sympathy 
and encouragement was addressed to her. Lodged at George 
W. Brown's ; and on Fifth-day morning [28th,] had a re- 
ligious opportunity in his family and that of his father 
David Brown, and made two short visits beside. Then at- 
tended the Falls Meeting, which was largely attended by 
Friends and others. I felt a concern for various states, and 
expressed as way opened ; and was led in a line of very 
close communication to some of the youth of our own So- 
ciety, who are living above the cross of Christ. Dined at 
B. Cadwalacler's, and took tea with the wife of my dear 
friend Christopher Healy, now absent in the service of the 
Gospel. She has lately had pleasant intelligence from him, 
and from others, of his labors amongst the Indians near 
Green Bay. Lodged at James Moon's. On Second-day 
[29th,] attended an appointed meeting at Wrightstown ; 
calling on the way thither at John Buckman's, in whose 
family we had a religious opportunity. Dined at Dr. Chap- 
man's ; and was drawn into silence before leaving the family, 
in which I felt particularly for two of the sons in declining 
health, who are both, I believe, concerned for their everlast- 
ing welfare. I had to address them and others present. I 
rode with my aged friend, John Scholfield, as far as his house; 
and on the way he pointed out the house of that worthy 
22 . 



330 MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1842. 



minister of Christ, Thomas Boss. We took tea with my 
before-mentioned friend ; and afterwards went to lodge at 
the habitation of that mother in Israel, Ruth Ely, whose 
company and conversation were very agreeable. On Third- 
day [30th,] attended Solebury Meeting, it being the day of 
their Preparative Meeting. It w 7 as rather a low T time, yet I 
felt an engagement to ]abor in weakness. Dined at Aaron 
Eastburn's, and had a religious opportunity with his family, 
in which my mind was particularly drawn to his wife, who 
has been long confined at home, being entirely deprived of 
sight. Went to Ezra Comfort, Jr.'s, to lodge ; where resides 
the widow and two daughters of my late much esteemed 
friend, John Comfort. On Fourth-day t morning [31st,] 
had a solemn opportunity with the family, in which our 
hearts were tendered and united, and the language of en- 
couragement was freely offered. Attended Buckingham Pre- 
parative Meeting. In the meeting for worship my heart 
was enlarged to preach the glad tidings of the Gospel. Dined 
at B. Gillingham's, and paid a family visit to two young 
Friends, William Balderston and wife ; also another to the 
widow and family of his late father, John W. Balderston. 
Then went to Dr. Fell's to lodge. 

Fifth-day, Ninth month 1st. Went to the Preparative 
Meeting at Plumsted, previous to attending which, I called 
to see my aged friends Daniel Carlisle and wife. Had an 
opportunity with them ; and it seems probable their time on 
earth is drawing towards its close. The meeting proved a 
low and exercising season ; yet I had some communication ; 
and afterwards a short one on the manner of attending re- 
ligious meetings. In the meeting for business some remarks 
were made to my younger brethren on the necessity of sub- 
mitting to the operation of that Power that would prepare 



1842.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



331 



them to take the places of faithful laborers, soon to enter 
their everlasting rest. Dined at John Fell's and had a 
religious opportunity with his family, and several Friends 
who were present, to a good degree of satisfaction, parting 
under a sense of our Heavenly Father's love and goodness. 
Came to James Moon's to lodge ; and the next day parting 
with his son M., who had been acceptably with us, we re- 
turned home. 

After remaining at home a few days, and not feeling re- 
leased from my concern, I again set off on Fourth-day, the 
7th, to attend the Falls Monthly Meeting, and to visit a few 
families. On this occasion, my nephew, James R. Greeves, bore 
me company. We reached Mahlon S. Kirkbride's and lodged 
there. In the morning [the 8th] we had a family sitting, in 
which I had to offer encouragement to my young friend and 
his wife. Afterwards had an opportunity at Daniel Burgess's 
with himself, his sister, and a niece, who resides with them. 
A family visit was also paid at John Price's, in which his 
wife, and several of his children were present. The wife is 
in poor health. The eldest daughter seems to be a very 
promising young woman. In the first meeting I was pros- 
trated before the Lord in vocal supplication. Although 
some valuable Friends belong to this meeting, there seems to 
be a want of depth and experience in managing its concerns, 
and too much backwardness amongst some of the middle- 
aged, and a few younger Friends, on whom a concern rests for 
the welfare of the Church. I was concerned to into the 
women's meeting, and labored to encourage them in the 
work of reformation, so much needed in our Society ; speak- 
ing of the manner in which some Friends permit their child- 
ren to associate with light and airy young persons in large 
parties, to their own serious injury, and that of others, in the 



332 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1842. 



way of example. Such things, when found in the families of 
active Friends, will prove as stumbling blocks in the way of 
honest inquirers. Dined at Mahlon Kirkbride's, and had an 
opportunity there. Went to Joseph Satterthwait's to tea, 
and had an opportunity of expressing my concern for the 
religious welfare of himself and family. Then to James 
Moon's to lodge. Way opened in the evening for a religious 
opportunity, which was relieving to my mind, having for 
some time felt a close exercise of spirit on account of *this 
family. In the morning [the 9th] another sitting took place, 
in which the solemnizing power of Truth was felt, so that I 9 
could leave them with an easy mind. Called at Asa AValms- 
ley's on my way home, and had a sitting with himself and 
children, feeling sympathy with him under the loss of his 
companion. On reaching my own habitation, I felt a degree 
of thankfulness in having been enabled to accomplish this 
religious engagement to my own peace of mind ; sensible at 
the same time of my own great unworthiness, and desiring 
that I may be strengthened to abide under the purifying 
baptisms of the Holy Spirit, which can alone prepare for 
future usefulness in the Church. 

T. K. TO HIS SON THOMAS. 

Ninth month 16th. 
* * Thy sister Susanna has a daughter about three 
weeks old, called after her own mother, Elizabeth. * * I 
have been a little journey on a religious account ; it was to 
attend the meetings of Bucks Quarterly Meeting. * * I 
had to regret in some neighborhoods that the young Friends 
were not consistent in their appearance ; and that too many 
of them were fond of light company and conversation, which 
is a sad hindrance to the growth of true religion. Yet there 



1842.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 333 



are some who are bowing to the cross, and, in a few instances, 
very remarkable changes have been effected by a submission 
to the Gospel, which is the power of God unto salvation to 
every one that believeth. I feel solicitous that our youth may 
become devoted followers of the Lord Jesus, and be prepared 
to take the place of faithful laborers gone to their everlast- 
ing reward. Mayest thou, my dear son, bow to the appear- 
ance of that Divine Grace, which manifests what is evil, and 
reproves for it, and as it is heeded, strengthens to come 
out of everything that the Lord's controversy is against 
We were not sent into the world to amuse ourselves, nor to 
accumulate earthly treasures, nor to gratify our own wills, 
nor the will of others, but to work out our ow T n salvation with 
fear and trembling, and to stand devoted to the Lord's cause 
in our day and generation. Thou livest where, I fear, there 
are few instances of entire dedication ; but the Lord, as thou 
relies upon Him, can enable thee to become an example of 
deep self-denial ; and if thou seeks first the kingdom of God, 
and the righteousness thereof, He will, I doubt not, provide 
things honest in the sight of men. and by his blessing, which 
gives contentment in a moderate way of living, add all 
things needful for thy temporal accommodation ; and pene- 
trate thy heart with gratitude to Him, both for outward and 
spiritual benefits. Thou art now nearly arrived at the age 
I was when my mouth was first opened as a preacher in pub- 
lic assemblies. It was a time of great humiliation, and ever 
to be had in remembrance by me. What the Lord would 
make of thee, if faithful, I cannot tell ; but I ardently desire 
He may be pleased powerfully to visit thy soul with renewed 
discoveries of the excellency of his everlasting Truth, — 
enamour thy mind therewith, — prostrate all within thee in 
resignation to his holy will, — show thee with indubitable 



334 MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1842. 

clearness what He would have thee to be, and to do, and give 
thee from season to season, strength to perform all that He 
requires. Then will thy peace flow as a river, and thy 
righteousness as the waves of the sea, and thou wilt be a 
preacher in life and conversation. It matters little what 
station may be assigned thee in the Church. If faithful in 
the lowest, it will insure the Divine approbation. " I had 
rather/' said the Psalmist, " be a door-keeper in the house of 
my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness." In one 
of thy late letters thou intimates that thou hast no present 
prospect of changing thy condition. I believe thou art aware 
that marriage is one of the most important events of a man's 
life; and much of his comfort in this life depends upon the 
choice he makes of a companion, — and it may influence his 
everlasting state. * * I hope thou wilt be preserved from 
choosing one whose mind is on earthly things, the decoration 
of the poor body, or those things which perish with the* using ; 
but that thou may be directed to one who fears the Lord, has 
entered into covenant with Him, upon whom He has put the 
ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is, in his sight, of 
great price. Such an one, instead of being a snare and a 
hindrance, would be a helper to thee in thy way to the king- 
dom of rest and peace. 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER SUSANNA. 

Ninth month 30th. 
I have been to Greenwich, and had a pleasant visit. I 
went on Sixth-day [23rd] to Salem in the steamboat, and 
found that Richard Acton and wife were contemplating a 
visit at some time to their Greenwich friends, and they con- 
cluded to bear me company. On Seventh-day morning 
[24th] we went, arriving at Moses Sheppard's in time for 



1842.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



335 



dinner. We took tea at John Sheppard's, separating after- 
wards, they going to Joseph Miller's, and I returning to 
Moses's. The next day we were at their meeting, and dined 
at George Bacon's ; took tea again at John Sheppard's ; 
visited John E. in the evening, and lodged at the father's. 
On Second-day left for Salem, calling at Moses S.'s again, 
and paying a visit to Joseph Miller's. Richard had some 
business at Shiloh, the settlement of a religious community, 
called the Seventh-day Baptists, and in consequence we went 
through that neighborhood, which is considerably out of the 
direct route to Salem. These people have a good reputation 
for integrity. They have settled on poor land, which they 
are improving. Keeping the Seventh, instead of the First- 
day of the week, as a day of cessation from business is, as 
their name imports, their distinguishing peculiarity. I saw 
evidence that the spirit of the world has made some inroads 
upon them, as is sorrowfully the case with other societies, our 
own not excepted. * * I expect to attend the Examina- 
tion at Westtown, and would gladly avail myself of the op- 
portunity of being so near my dear children, to pay them a 
visit, and yet circumstances at this time, seem to forbid it ; 
but whether I come frequently to see you, or other duties 
prevent, I am at all times, your truly affectionate father. 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1842. 



CHAPTER XVIII.— 1842. 

DIARY — VISITS MUNCY WITH QUARTERLY MEETING COM- 
MITTEE — CATHARINE SHEPPARD's DEATH. 

Diary continued : 

"Our Quarterly Meeting having appointed me one of a 
committee to aid and assist Friends of Muncy Monthly 
Meeting, and several visits having previously been made by 
other members of the committee in pursuance of the object 
of our appointment, way appeared to open for me to engage 
in similar service, in company with Joseph Snowden, Sarah 
Hillman, and Elizabeth Pierson, also members of the com- 
mittee. We commenced our journey on Seventh-day, Tenth 
month 8th, and lodged at the house of Hannah Williams, 
Plymouth. In the evening we had a religious opportunity 
with the family, in which S. H. was my fellow-laborer. On 
First-day morning [the 9th] we set off for Pottstown, and ar- 
rived in time for meeting, at which w 7 ere six persons beside 
ourselves ; yet to this little company the language of encour- 
agement was offered ; both S. H. and I having something to 
communicate. Dined at Sarah Potts's, and went on to Exe- 
ter to Ellis Lee's to lodge. The next morning [10th] we all 
walked to the next house, the residence of John Lee, and 
had a time of retirement in his family. S. H. addressed our 
aged friend and his wife appropriately, after which I was 
drawn forth in supplication on their behalf, — for their child- 
ren, the members of that meeting, and for us who w T ere going 
forth under feelings of great weakness. Went to Maiden 
Creek, to Sybilla Starr's to dinner ; and to Enos Lee's to 
lodge. On Third-day [11th] w 7 e pursued our journey, and 
lodged at J. Spohn's, on the summit of the Broad Mountain. 



1842.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



337 



On Fourth-day evening [12th], we reached Andrew Eve's, 
Fishing Creek, and lodged. Fifth-day [13th], attended 
Greenwood Preparative Meeting, in which labor was ex- 
tended in weakness. We arrived in the evening at Mercy 
Ellis's, Muncy. Sixth day [14th]. attended Muncy Prepara- 
tive Meeting, which was held by appointment at this time 
for our accommodation. The meeting was favored, Sarah 
Hill man participating in the public service." 

In a letter to his wife, written on the 14th, T. K. says : 
" I write at Henry Ecroyd's, Joseph and I having walked 
here this morning, after calling at Jacob Haines's. Jacob 
got home last evening. His- father seems pretty well, except- 
ing a cold. He and Mercy Ellis have commenced a family 
visit ; have generally visited Friends of Fishing Creek, and 
propose beginning those of this meeting soon. I have been 
glad to hear that these aged Friends seem bound to this ser- 
vice. Afternoon: The meeting is over. It was in good de- 
gree favored. Sarah was enabled to address various classes 
in the love of the Gospel. I followed her ; and Mercy Ellis 
had a short testimony. After the Preparative Meeting, we 
had an opportunity with the Overseers, as we had yesterday, 
at Fishing Creek. There seems a hopeful prospect at both 
the meetings, that some of the young people are preparing 
for usefulness ; but there are others that do not appear to 
have submitted to the power of the cross." 

Diary. ' k On Seventh-day morning [15th,] we had a re- 
ligious opportunity in the family of John Ecroyd — a close, 
searching time. Dined at Jacob Haines', and paid a re- 
ligious visit in the afternoon to the widow Warner, daughter 
of our late friend Elizabeth Kitely, accompanied by our 
friend, Mercy Ellis : the widow was addressed, and also an 
afflicted daughter, who had long been confined to her bed, 



338 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1842. 



and appears to have lost the power of speech ; yet her under- 
standing seems clear, and she appears to be favored with 
religious sensibility. On First-day morning [16th,] we paid 
a religious visit to the family of John Warner, and after- 
wards attended Muncy Meeting, in which ability was re- 
newed to labor. In the afternoon w-ent to Pine Grove, and 
lodged at Isaac Winner's. His daughter Sarah appears to 
be a valuable young Friend. On Second-day [17th,] we had 
an appointed meeting, in which some capacity for public 
labor was granted, S. H. participating therein. The mem- 
bers were requested to remain together when the meeting 
for worship closed ; and they were exhorted to be more dili- 
gent and faithful in the discharge of their religious duties. 
On Third-day [18th,] J. S., S. H. and I, attended Muncy 
Preparative Meeting for Ministers and Elders. It was a 
close, searching time. In the evening, a time of silent re- 
tirement occurred at our friend Mercy Ellis', several Friends 
being present, w 7 ho had come to attend the Monthly Meeting. 
On this occasion Ellen McCarthy was drawn forth in testi- 
mony, nor was I wholly excused. On Fourth-day [19th,] we 
attended Muncy Monthly Meeting. In the first meeting 
Sarah Hillman, Ellen McCarty and I, respectively appeared 
in testimony, and Mercy Ellis in supplication. Notwithstand- 
ing there are a few valuable Friends here, the meeting appears 
to be in a weak state, and there is great want of faithfulness 
and consistency in maintaining our principles. In the after- 
noon we paid a religious visit to the family of Benjamin Evans : 
it was a time of tenderness and favor. On Fifth-day [20th,] 
after a solemn opportunity, in which Mercy Ellis, Martha 
Parker, Jacob and Rachel Haines, and several of the chil- 
dren of the last-named Friends were present, we set off for 
Greenwood and lodged at David Masters'. I w-ent alone 



1842.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



339 



towards evening, and had an opportunity with a daughter of 
David's, who married out, but is now a member, and seems 
under much religious exercise. Sixth-day [21st,] reached J. 
Spohn's tavern, on the Broad Mountain, to lodge. Seventh- 
day [22nd,] to Enos Lee's. On First-day [23rd,] after a 
religious opportunity, we set forward for Exeter Meeting. I 
was silent ; but near the close Sarah Hillman was engaged in 
vocal supplication for the renewed extension of Divine mercy 
and regard. After dinner at Daniel Lee's, Joseph Snowden 
and I walked to Amos Lee's, and had a tendering religious 
opportunity in his family. Proceeded to Pottstown , and lodged 
at Sarah Potts'. In the evening a family visit was paid to Har- 
riet Brooks, and her daughter Bebecca J. Potts, several of the 
children of the latter being present. On Second-day [the 
24th,] we reached home. We have been favored with good 
roads and agreeable weather. We went forth in weakness, 
have been kept in a low, dependent state, yet favored at 
times with renewed ability to labor for the help of our fellow- 
members ; and in returning feel the quiet assurance that we 
endeavored to do what we could." 

T. K. TO HIS SON THOMAS. 

Eleventh month 2nd, 1842. 
[After mentioning his visit to Muncy.] The situation of 
our Friends in some of the Particular Meetings was such 
as to cause sorrow, and abate the satisfaction we might other- 
wise have taken in our excursion. In too many parts the 
professors of Truth have imbibed the spirit of the world, and 
become light and airy, or dry and formal. What can awaken 
them from their supineness ? The Lord has striven with 
them by his Spirit, and visited them with his judgments, and 



340 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1842. 



if not reclaimed, it may be, that He will deal with them by 
terrible things in righteousness. * * * 

I often feel anxiety about thee, and desire for thy preserva- 
tion, not only from evil, but from the appearance of it. 
* * * A close attention to the Heavenly Monitor within, 
will restrain from all that is improper, either in kind or in 
degree, and teach that " whether we eat or drink, or whatever 
we do," we should be aiming " to do all to the glory of God." 
Mayest thou, my beloved son, get deep enough in thy mind, 
seriously to consider what in thy conduct or conversation, 
falls short of the standard of purity held up by our worthy 
predecessors, and their faithful successors. And even if 
there should not be another young person in your city to 
join thee, I want thee to endeavor to bear a firm and con- 
sistent testimony for our principles, in thy life and conversa- 
tion, and by submitting to those baptisms which cleanse in- 
wardly, be gradually prepared to be rightly engaged in 
advocating those doctrines for which the primitive Friends 
so nobly suffered. 

In the Eleventh month, 1842, Thomas Kite visited Con- 
cord Quarterly Meeting, and his daughter at Westtown. In 
the beginning of the Twelfth month he recommenced his 
Diary, with the following observations : 

" Some little attempt was made, in the Third and Fourth 
months, 1839, towards keeping a Diary ; it has since been 
suspended, excepting whilst absent from home on religious 
service. I renew the effort, designing occasionally to make 
an entry, which may serve to remind me of the Lord's 
gracious dealings with me ; and with the desire that I may 
increase in diligence and dedication to my Divine Master, 



1842.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



341 



that so in the conclusion of my time here, I may be permitted 
to enter his undefiled rest. 

Twelfth month 4th. First-day. At morning meeting I 
was silent. After dinner I went with my wife to the funeral 
of Henry, son of Richard Williams, who died at Westtown, 
in his fifteenth year. At the house, the goodness and mercy 
of our Heavenly Father was commemorated, as manifested 
even in afflictive dispensations. Sympathy with the mourners 
was expressed ; and those present w r ere admonished to im- 
prove by the present instance of mortality. At our after- 
noon meeting, encouragement was handed to an honest- 
hearted but deeply tried remnant. At evening meeting, 
largely opened in expression upon the past and present state 
of our Society, as w 7 ell as its future prospects. A good degree 
of solemnity seemed to attend. After meeting, I accom- 
panied my daughter [Rebecca] to the house of mourning, and 
way opened to address the brothers and sisters of the deceased 
youth. 

5th. Second-day. I have had fresh occasion to remem- 
ber Paul's concern, with desire that it may always be mine : 
' I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection ; lest 
that by any means, when I have preached to others, I my- 
self should be a castaway.' 

6th. Third-day. Attended the funeral of Rebecca, daugh- 
ter of William and Elizabeth Biddle. She was a scholar at 
the select school, and died in the twelfth year of her age. I 
sat with the family, and had to speak, commencing with the 
passage, 4 Whom the Lord loveth He chasteneth, and scourgeth 
every son whom He receiveth.' At the place of interment, 
Rebecca's school-fellows were addressed, a number of them 
being present. 

7th. Fourth-day. Feeling drawings to attend Orange 



342 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1842. 



Street Meeting, I went thither. A sweet solemnity spread 
over the assembly, and I was helped to minister to various 
states, to my own peace. After which E. Evans was largely 
engaged in thanksgiving and supplication. 

8th. Fifth-day. In our week-day meeting I was opened 
on some important doctrines of the Christian faith, from 
Ezekiel's vision of the holy waters, and from the pure river of 
water of life, which John saw. My desire is, that I may ex- 
perience what I have borne testimony of to others. 

Twelfth month 10th. Seventh -day. In conference with 
a sweet-spirited friend, felt the precious cementing influence 
of Gospel love. Afterwards, a season of silent waiting, and 
the language of encouragement handed. I felt drawn to go 
to the girls' school in James Street; and during the silent 
pause at the close, I was prostrated in vocal prayer for the 
children, and all who were then present. Afterwards had a 
brief exhortation for the children. 

11th. First-day. At the breakfast table access seemed 
mercifully granted to t he Throne of Grace, and I was enabled 
to plead for forgiveness of sin, and future preservation on 
behalf of my family, — a circumstance unusual with me. 
Silent in the morning meeting. In the afternoon, had to 
express the language of sympathy for those who are walking 
in darkness, with encouragement to believe there would be 
a change of dispensation. In the evening meeting, an ad- 
dress to parents from the words, ' Then David returned to 
bless his household.' S. Hillman ministered acceptably. 

13th. Third-day. I believed it right to attend the North 
Meeting. A precious solemnity was felt, and I stood up with 
the language of our Lord to the woman at Jacob's well, " If 
thou hadst known the gift of God," &c, with caution and 
encouragement. My dear friend Elizabeth Pitfield, was 



1842.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



343 



afterwards drawn forth in much the same line of communica- 
tion. The solemnity continued afterwards in silence, and I 
was comforted in being there. 

T. K. TO HIS SON THOMAS. 

Twelfth month 14th. 
[After mentioning the death of H. Williams, as before 
mentioned.] His mother was with him, and three of the 
teachers came to the city to manifest their sympathy with 
her, and to attend the funeral, viz., Joseph Walton, Jr., 
Abigail Williams, and thy sister Rebecca. Though thy sis- 
ter's visit was short, and the occasion sorrowful, yet it was 
pleasant to us to have her with us. She had the opportunity 
of attending one of the evening meetings, which this winter 
are regularly held on First-days. Our friends William Bid- 
die and wife, have met with two close trials. In the first 
place, their son Samuel, perhaps fourteen years old, took the 
scarlet fever ; it was an aggravated case, and he survived the 
attack but about one day. Three other children, all they 
had, have had the same disease, and one of them, their only 
daughter, aged about eleven, has also died. The parents 
were strongly attached to their children, and this bereave- 
ment proves very afflictive. I hope it may be overruled for 
their good, by loosening their affections from this world, and 
settling them on that world, and the things of it, which is 
everlastingly glorious. Our uncle, John Letchworth, is 
again ill. He has passed through so many sicknesses, in 
which he was brought very low, that it is difficult to decide, 
yet one of our intimate friends thinks, this will prove his last. 
It is a comfort to believe, as we do, that if it should prove so, 
he is prepared. He has diligently served the best of Masters, 
who now " makes his bed in sickness," and will, no doubt, 



344 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1842. 



receive him to Himself when the few remaining days of his 
pilgrimage are accomplished. 

Extract of a letter from one of T. K.'s family : " On 
Second-day morning [12th], died the oldest female member 
of our meeting, Mary Coates. On Third-day night, Catha- 
rine Sheppard was taken with gout in the stomach ; suffered 
extremely on Fourth-day ; towards evening was better, and 
seemed to pass an easier night. Fifth-day morning, 15th, 
she was taken ill with a sinking spell ; Elizabeth Pitfield 
went into the room with the daughter, and by rubbing her 
with camphor, she seemed to revive. She spoke to Elizabeth ; 
said she was aged, and would not last long ; that she had 
been looking around, and felt nothing in her way. Spoke 
of her dear Redeemer. She conversed a little about John 
Wilbur, showing her interest in him. Elizabeth then with- 
drew, and Catharine appeared to doze ; she roused up, and 
said, ' This seems like the sleep of death.' She then soon 
expired." 

T. K.'s Diary, continued. 

" Twelfth month 15th. Fifth-day. Attended the funeral 
of our aged friend, Mary Coates, who died in her ninetieth 
year. At the grave, under a sense that it was well with the 
deceased, the language of our Lord was revived, ' Daughters 
of Jerusalem, weep not for me, but weep for yourselves and 
for your children.' My exercise of soul was for those who 
remain in this mutable state, exposed to the assaults and 
temptations of the enemy. 

17th. Seventh-day. Visited Ann Richards and several 
of her children. It was the first time of my entering the 
house since the interment of her sister Rachel C. Bartram, 
who was run over and killed by a horse about a year ago. 



1842.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



345 



In a religious communication, I had to express my belief 
that this awful dispensation had been permitted in mercy. 
Most of the children seemed tender; and one of them, a 
grown-up daughter, appears to be under a precious visitation 
of Divine love and mercy.* 

18th. First-day. In the morning meeting considerable 
enlargement was witnessed in word and doctrine. The ex- 
perience of the Apostle Paul was brought into view, and 
several states addressed. Attended the funeral of our friend 
Catharine Sheppard, who departed this life on the 15th. 
Although unwell, she had been at meeting on the 13th. She 
occupied the station of an elder, was a woman of integrity, 
and will be much missed in her Monthly Meeting. A short 
testimony to the way of life and salvation, was delivered at 
the grave, and the belief expressed, that though the sum- 
mons to our departed friend might seem to be somewhat sud- 
den, she was, through Divine Mercy, found w T ith her loins 
girt about and her light burning, waiting for the coming of 
her Lord. Silent in the afternoon and evening meeting ; but 
had particularly to address my nephew and nieces, who are 
under my care, after our evening reading of the Scriptures. 
The seed sown in weakness, may hereafter be raised in power, 
if our heavenly Parent , be pleased graciously to extend an 
awakening visitation. So be it, saith my soul. 

19th. Second-day. Occupied a part of the morning in 
visiting my afflicted friends, William and Elizabeth Biddle. 
I was comforted in the belief that they have attained a good 
degree of resignation respecting their late bereavement. In 
the opportunity I had to encourage them to stand in dedica- 
tion of heart to what the Lord may be pleased to call them 
to. It was measurably a favored season. 

*■ She subsequently was received into membership. 

23 



346 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1842. 



20th. Third-day. Sat with Margaret and Catharine, 
daughters of my late friend, Catharine Sheppard, their mar- 
ried sister Eebecca Warder, being also present. The over- 
shadowing of the Wing of Ancient Goodness was experienced. 
I felt sympathy for my friends, in a sense of their and the 
Church's loss, and had to hand forth the language of encour- 
agement. Afterwards I had a religious opportunity in the 
family of our late friend Mary Coates ; her widowed daugh- 
ter Mary Horner, and two of her grand-daughters, being 
present. 

22nd. Fifth-day. Felt deeply conscious of my own de- 
ficiencies, and not destitute of aspirations for deliverance. 
Went to meeting with no expectation of being heard ; yet 
an opening presented on the spiritual nature of the baptisms 
of Christ. I sat sometime under it ; and at length arose with 
John the Baptist's declaration, ' There standeth one among 
you whom ye know not ; He shall baptize you with the Holy 
Ghost and with fire.' May I experimentally know the 
cleansing operation of his power, ' whose fan is in his hand.' 
In the afternoon, my wife and I went to Woodbury, princi- 
pally to visit our dear friend Joseph Whitall. Lodged at 
George Mickle's. 

23rd. Sixth-day. We went early in the morning to J. 
W.'s, and found him in a very weak state of body, but lively 
in spirit, and deeply interested in the cause of Truth and 
righteousness. We accompanied him to the week-day meet- 
ing. It seemed a low time ; yet towards the close, a short 
communication was delivered, on the case of Saul, who had 
been ' a choice young man and goodly ;' yet by unfaithful- 
ness to his God he lost his favor, and at length his kingdom 
and his life. 

Twelfth month 25th. First-day. The morning and even- 



1842.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



347 



ing meetings were silent. In the afternoon meeting, Paul's 
address to the Philippians was revived, 6 I would ye should 
understand, brethren, that the things which happened unto 
me have fallen out rather for the furtherance of the Gospel.' 
The tempted and tried were encouraged to believe this would 
be their experience as they held fast their faith in the Good 
Shepherd, who careth for the sheep. 

26th. Second-day. Dipped into sympathy with an exer- 
cised friend, whom I addressed with expressions of encour- 
agement. 

27th. Third-day. Much depressed with a sense that I 
am far from being thoroughly purified. Feeling an impulse 
thereto, I went to the North Meeting. A covering of so- 
lemnity prevailed, under which access to the Throne of 
Grace in vocal supplication was vouchsafed. Petitions were 
presented for various classes ; and that as the Lord in his 
wisdom, has removed faithful laborers, He would raise up 
and qualify others to fill their pjaces. In the evening, at 
her request, I accompanied my wife to Timothy Abbott's. 
Before we left his house, the company were drawn into 
silence, and I was concerned, in vocal supplication, for a 
widow present ; also for a fatherless young woman, who is, 
as I apprehend, exposed to danger ; and for us all, that at 
the solemn hour of death, we might be found prepared for 
the mansions of rest and peace." 



348 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 
\ 



[1843. 



CHAPTER XIX.— 1843. 

DIARY — LETTERS — JOHN LETCHWORTH's DEATH EDITH 

JEFFERIS' DECEASE — LETTERS — DIARY. 

First month 1st, 1843. " First-day. Felt a draft to 
attend the Western Meeting ; and therein was concerned 
to open the doctrines of the Gospel from the testimony 
of Paul, 'After that, in the wisdom of God, the world 
by wisdom knew not God ; it pleased God by the fool- 
ishness of preaching, to save them that believe.' A good 
degree of solemnity seemed to attend. The afternoon 
meeting was silent. In the evening meeting I was again 
engaged, commencing with nearly these expressions : ' It 
appears that whenever reformation has commenced, how- 
ever glorious, in a short time an eclipse has followed ; when- 
ever a considerable body of believers has been gathered to 
the truth as it is in Jesus, in a brief period there has been on 
the part of some, a falling away from their steadfastness. 
This arises from the stratagems of the old enemy, working 
on the corruptions of the human heart, and seeking to pre- 
vent the spreading of the cause of Truth and righteousness. 
Yet the Lord, whose power commences the work of reforma- 
tion, does not desert his own cause, but in mercy raises up 
and qualifies instruments to labor for a revival of pure reli- 
gion ; and the work of these has ever been to lead the people 
back to first principles, and first practices.' These expres- 
sions were followed by references to the state of the primitive 
Church, its first glory, its decline, and the labors of the apos- 
tles to bring the professors of the name of Christ to the ex- 
perience of his power. Also to the state of our Society in the 
beginning ; the excellency that appeared amongst those bright 



1843.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



349 



sons of the morning ; the declension of zeal which followed ; 
the prevalence of worldlymindedness ; the faithful men and 
women since raised up ; the nature of their testimony/ &e. 
Following this, was an address to the younger members, and 
an exhortation to dwell under the power which would pre- 
pare them for the service of their day ; with an encouraging 
prospect of the future state of the Church, after a time of 
sifting and trial, through faithfulness to the visitations of the 
Day-spring from on high. Calling after meeting at a Friend's 
house, those present were drawn into silence, and therein a 
door of communication was opened in a line of close, plain 
dealing, seasoned with Gospel love. 

2nd. Second-day. At the Girls' Select School on James' 
Street by appointment. Elizabeth Evans had some seasona r 
ble remarks to offer to the children, and I had a share in the 
labor. As the Select Schools were established from a re- 
ligious concern for the welfare of the youth, it is much to 
be desired that this ground may be steadily kept to, not only 
by the teachers, but by the committee to whose care they 
are entrusted. Then we may reasonably hope that the Di- 
vine blessing will rest upon them. 

8th. First-day. During several of the past days I have 
been depressed ; very little sense of Divine life attending. To- 
day I have been somewhat revived with sensations of good. In 
the morning meeting a testimony w r as delivered. The decla- 
ration of Paul w 7 as uttered, with remarks, as way opened ; 
' Being justified by faith, we have peace with God, through 
our Lord Jesus Christ.' In the afternoon my dear friend, 
Elizabeth C. Mason, who has long been shut up as to public 
labor in this place, was opened in a lively and appropriate 
testimony, to my comfort. In the evening, after several 
testimonies were borne [by S. Bettle, H. Rhoads and E. 



350 MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1843. 



Pitfield,] I was prostrated in vocal thanksgiving and sup- 
plication. A remarkable solemnity covered the meeting to 
its close. Afterwards in a religious opportunity in a Friend's 
house some labor was extended. 

11th. Fourth- day. At Orange Street Meeting, opened 
on the passage, ' Verily thou art a God that hidest thyself, 
O God of Israel, the Saviour.' Those were addressed who 
had experienced the hidings of the Lord's face, in consequence 
of their unfaithfulness ; and those also who were walking in 
darkness, and yet truly desiring to know and do the Lord's 
will ; with counsel for each class. Elizabeth Evans had 
afterwards acceptable service. 

12th. Fifth-day. At Radnor Monthly Meeting. Many 
young Friends were present from Haverford Boarding School, 
towards whom my mind was opened in love. The nature of 
the Gospel dispensation was set forth, and a testimony borne 
to the Law which is written not with ink, but the spirit 
of the living God ; not in tables of stone, but in fleshly 
tables of the heart. Something also was addressed to the 
aged. In the meeting for discipline the youth were again 
spoken to." 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

First month 6th, 1843. 
I take a whole sheet of paper to acknowledge the receipt 
of thy closely written and well filled epistle, but not with 
any settled conclusion to write on each page. * * Thy aunt 
Mary has been at Ruth Jess's nearly all the time for more 
than a week. A young friend from North Carolina boarding 
there, and attending medical lectures, was taken ill, and his 
life was considered in danger. No marvel was it that thy 
kind-hearted aunt was found at his bed-side ; nor that Ruth 



1843.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 351 



was desirous of retaining her, as she still does, although the 
youth is getting better. But he still requires good nursing, 
as he is weak. * * * I have occasionally met with a new 
history of the Great Reformation of the Sixteenth Century, 
by J. H. Merle D'Aubigne, but felt no desire to read it> 
having heretofore perused divers accounts of those eventful 
times ; but recently looking into it, I became interested, and 
am inclined to think I shall travel through it. It is written 
in a lively and striking manner, and thy mother has listened 
with much satisfaction to portions of Martin Luther's per- 
sonal history. The great Reformer, as he is styled by many, 
had his mind very gradually opened to the errors of the Romish 
creed ; and after all, was far short of the brightness of the 
Gospel day, which broke forth amongst our early Friends. 
George Fox was undoubtedly the greatest of the modern 
Reformers ; depending not on human learning, as the others 
too often did, but on the openings of the Holy Spirit, and 
exemplifying in his life a beautiful consistency with his doc- 
trines. But I must not enlarge on this subject at present. 
With regard to thy future movements, whether to remain 
another session at Westtown or leave at the close of this, I 
wish thee to feel after the subject deliberately. I have rather 
looked forward to the latter alternative ; but am willing to 
sacrifice personal feelings, if the other course should appear 
best. It is a precious state to have our wills brought into 
subjection to the Divine will, and to have that will clearly 
made known to us. I feel a hope this may be thy experience. 

Thomas Kite having received a letter from his friend, 
Joseph Edgerton, then travelling on a religious visit through 
New York Yearly Meeting, was feelingly drawn into sympa- 
thy with him, in the trials of spirit to which he was sub- 



352 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1843. 



jected ; and soon felt an engagement of mind to. salute him 
with a brotherly epistle. 

Philadelphia, First month 11th. 1843. 
Dear Friend, Joseph Edgerton : — I duly received 
thy letter dated the 28th and 30th of last month. It was 
interesting to be informed of thy movements since thou left 
us ; and feelings of sympathy were awakened by its perusal. 
Truly it is a day in which the faithful burden-bearers have 
to go, many times, mourning on their way. And yet they do 
not serve a hard Master. He, for whose blessed cause they 
are made willing to surfer, can and will, as they keep near 
to Him, make good in their experience the ancient declara- 
tion, " He that goeth forth weeping, bearing precious seed, 
shall doubtless come again rejoicing, bringing his sheaves 
with him." As it is possible thou mayest not have heard 
from thy family for some time, it seems as if it might be right 
to inform thee, that thy daughter, whose health was poor 
when thou left home, has since been removed from the con- 
flicts of time. The circumstances that attended her departure, 
I am not acquainted with, but understand that William 
Evans has been several times at thy house, and has been in 
company Avith thy wife since this afflictive dispensation, and 
found her calm and tranquil. These are events which call 
for the exercise of resignation, particularly occurring when 
we are at a distance. May the Lord enable thee to centre 
in that frame of spirit which strengthened Job to say, under 
his bereavement, " The Lord gave, the Lord hath taken 
away, blessed be the name of the Lord." The last letter I 
have heard of, received from William Evaus by his family, 
was written at Salem ; he had nearly attended all the meet- 
ings in Ohio. Beaver and one or two others in Pennsylvania 
would remain, and one in Virginia belonging to Redstone 



1843.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



353 



Quarter. After attending these and visiting Mildred Kat- 
cliffe, he proposed coming pretty directly home, where he is 
expected about the 18th inst. He will then be in time to 
attend our Meeting for Sufferings, which stands adjourned 
to the 20th. From various sources I have learned, that his 
visit has been seasonable to Friends of your Yearly Meeting ; 
and though he has had his conflicts of spirit, yet I believe 
he has had the evidence of being in his proper allotment. 
We shall on various accounts, be glad of his return. 

We have been holding an evening meeting on First-days, 
at the Arch Street house this winter, for the members of the 
Society in this city generally. Through the renewed ex- 
tensions of Divine regard, they have been generally solid 
good meetings ; and I trust will have a cementing influence. 
Nothing has lately occurred to produce any collision amongst 
us, yet I fear there are too many who hold this modified 
Quakerism, which has been the source of so much painful 
exercise. No less than seven changes have been made in 
our Meeting for Sufferings within the past year ; five from 
death and two from resignation. Nearly or quite ail the 
new members are thought to be attached to our ancient 
principles, which is a great favor ; it being of great import- 
ance that this representative body should be preserved sound 
and firm. * * * [Sister Mary] as well as my wife join 
me in love to thyself and companion. I am thy friend in 
the Truth. 

P. S. I gave thy message to Elizabeth Evans, who says, 
" Give my love to him ; and tell him a line from him would 
be acceptable to us." 

Diary continued. "15th. First-day. Our meetings were 
silent, morning and afternoon. I went to the late residence 



354 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1843. 



of our friend Hannah Hollingshead, on the occasion of her 
funeral, and had some service in calling the attention of 
the company there assembled to the necessity of being pre- 
pared for the close of life, and for an admittance into that city 
' which hath no need of the sun, neither of the moon to shine 
in it ; for the glory of God doth lighten it, and the Lamb is 
the light thereof.' In the evening meeting [I was] opened 
on the fundamental doctrine of the divinity of the Lord 
Jesus Christ ; also in acknowledgment of his manhood, and 
bearing testimony to Him as the Light of the world, and the 
life of men. A young man, who has joined the Separatists, 
afterwards appeared both in declaration and on his knees, in 
a very unsatisfactory manner ; yet the meeting was pre- 
served in quietude, not one person in that assembly rising at 
his last appearance. 

16th. Second-day. Had a sitting with a young friend, 
at present a member of my family ; in whom I endeavored 
to stir up the pure mind by way of remembrance of the 
Lord's merciful dealings with her, and encouraged her to 
unreserved dedication of heart. 

20th. Sixth-day. A favored time at the Meeting for 
Sufferings. Friends were enabled to enter into a feeling 
conference on the present state of our Society ; which resulted 
in the separation of a committee to prepare an address to the 
members." 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

First month 21st. 
Our friend William Evans is indeed again with us ; and 
I was particularly glad of his company yesterday at the 
Meeting for Sufferings. I there saw a number of our valua- 
ble country Friends, whom it is pleasant to see. Our dear 



1843.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



355 



friend, Joseph Whitall, was again amongst us ; fervent in 
spirit, though weak in body. He has been forty-five years 
a member of that meeting. Our uncle, John Letchworth, 
seems rather revived. * * * Our aged friend, Mary 
Wistar, is also much indisposed, and is thought to be in a 
critical state, so that her husband did not come to the Meet- 
ing for Sufferings yesterday. 

My dear child, the present is a critical time in our re- 
ligious Society, and indeed in what is called Christendom at 
large. Conflicting elements are at work. It is too copious 
a theme to enter much upon, on such a piece of paper as this. 
I mention it, however, to introduce my conviction that there 
is great necessity for each one of us, whether young or old, 
to repair to the foundation, which stands sure ; and to be 
built upon it, and then all the shakings and overturnings 
that are in the world cannot move us from our steadfastness. 
" Watch and pray," said bur Divine Master, "that ye enter 
not into temptation." And when we consider the prize of our 
high calling, how willing ought we to be to bear the cross, to 
crucify the flesh with its affections and lusts, and to do or 
suffer the will of God, which is experienced by the faithful 
to be their sanctifi cation. Mayest thou, then, be of the wise 
number to whom the promise belongs, " Blessed are all they 
who do his commandments, that they may have a right to 
the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the 
city.' 7 Remember me affectionately to A. Williams and 
Martha Barton, and tell them I desire their encouragement 
in the tribulated path which leads to everlasting life. 

Diary. u First month 22nd. First-day. In the morning 
meeting engaged on the query of the disciples, 6 Lord wilt 
thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel T The 



356 MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1843. 



afternoon was wholly silent. A covering of solemnity was 
experienced in that held in the evening." 

Extract from a letter from one of the family to Thomas 
Kite, Jr. 

" I thought him [T. K.] this morning eminently favored. 
He began with the sixth verse of the first chapter of Acts, 
' Lord, wilt thou at this time restore the kingdom to Israel ?' 
and repeating the seventh and eighth verses ; ' And He said 
unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons 
which the Father has put in his own power. But ye shall 
receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you : 
and ye shall be made witnesses unto me, both in Jerusalem, 
and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost 
part of the earth.' He then commented on these passages, 
showing that though his disciples had been with Him, and 
were witnessses of his miracles, healing the sick, curing the 
lame, restoring sight to the blind, unstopping the deaf ear, 
and even raising the dead, yet their views were still out- 
ward ; they had not fully discerned the spirituality of his 
mission. They were anticipating the restoration of their 
nation from under the Roman bondage to its peaceful and 
happy state in the reigns of David and Solomon. It was 
not for them to know the times and the seasons which the 
Father had put in his own power ; yet He gave them in- 
structions how to do, ' Tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem until 
ye be endued with power from on high.' I wish I could 
give the whole of it, with the feeling, impressive and forcible 
manner in which it was spoken." 

MARY KITE TO SUSANNA SHARPLESS. 

Oh, it is cheering to my spirit to sit beside dear uncle's 
[John Letch worth's] bed, and look at his placid, shall I say 



1843.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



357 



heavenly countenance, beaming with kindness on all who 
approach him. As I sat by his side he remarked, " All the 
days of my appointed time will I wait, till my change come." 
I said to him, " I suppose thou would be glad to be released?" 
" Oh yes," he said, " but I desire to have no will in it." He 
is very feeble ; and often so prostrated, that he appears 
nearly gone. Many friends call to see him : indeed few are 
more universally beloved than uncle John. 

Diary continued. " First month 24th. Third-day. Took 
tea, with my wife, with our aged friend, Elizabeth Cleaver. 
In a religious opportunity, Sarah Hillman, who was also 
there with her mother, addressed our dear friend impres- 
sively. I also had a short communication. 

25th. Fourth-day. At the Western Meeting I was con- 
cerned to revive the address of our Lord, ' Fear not, little 
flock, for it is your heavenly Father's good pleasure to give 
you the kingdom.' I was considerably enlarged, both to 
the little flock of the Redeemer's followers, and also to others, 
who have not as yet taken up his cross, which would bring 
them to be of that number. I had also to bear testimony to 
the nature of his kingdom. Afterwards my mouth was 
opened in the solemn service of vocal supplication. At the 
close of the meeting I called to see my young friend, Lloyd 
Bailey, who is in declining health ; and had an opportunity 
wdth him, his mother being present, in which they were re- 
spectively spoken to. 

26th. Fifth-day. At our Monthly Meeting. A covering 
of good in silence, and under the lively ministry of dear 
Elizabeth Pitfield. The meeting for business more heavy. 
I obtained the concurrence of my friends with my paying a 
religious visit to the meetings within the limits of Abington 



358 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1843. 



Quarterly Meeting. Was informed after meeting that our 
friend, Charles Allen, was found dead in his bed this morn- 
ing. He had for some time been in declining health. In the 
afternoon I called at his late residence, and being invited to 
see the widow, had an opportunity with her, nearly all the 
children being present. My mouth was opened in testimony 
from this passage of Scripture, ' Precious in the sight of the 
Lord is the death of his saints.' Afterwards I was engaged 
in supplication for the widow and the fatherless. 

27th. Sixth-day. Calling in the evening on business at 
a friend's house, I was unexpectedly brought under exercise, 
and had to address him, his wife, and her sister in a line of 
close counsel, in which the testimony of our Lord to the 
sister of Lazarus was brought into view ; ' Mary hath chosen 
that good part which shall not be taken from her.' 

28th. Seventh-day. Deeply bowed under the prospect 
of engaging in my religious visit, and the consciousness of 
my own unworthiness and utter helplessness. Strong desires 
arose to the Father of Mercies for the remission of sin, and 
for a more thorough washing in the laver of regeneration. 

29th. First-day. Commenced the visit after a- restless 
night, by attending Germ an town Meeting ; and was helped 
to speak to the people. The Prophet's testimony to the Lord's 
dealings with his servant Jacob was quoted : ' He found him 
in Bethel, and there He spake with us : even the Lord God 
of Hosts ; the Lord is his memorial.'* All the Lord's visited 
children have a Bethel, a season in which He reveals his 
love to them ; and as they take hold of it, they are enabled 
to enter into covenant with Him. Various incidents in the 
Patriarch's life were brought into view, with applications to 
the states of those assembled. Afterwards I was prostrated 

* Hosea, xii. 4. 



1843.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



359 



in vocal supplication. Returned to the city with peaceful 
feelings. In our evening meeting our friend, William Evans, 
recently returned from a religious visit to the meetings of 
Ohio Yearly Meeting, was excellently engaged in unfolding 
the practical, self-denying doctrines of the Gospel, to a large 
and attentive auditory. May his labors be fastened as a 
nail in a sure place. 

31st. Third-day. At Frankford Monthly Meeting held 
at German town, my mouth was opened in testimony to the 
nature of the kingdom and government of the dear Son of 
God ; and various classes were addressed. The meeting for 
worship was favored ; and the business afterwards was trans- 
acted in a solid, becoming manner. Alice Knight was set 
at liberty to visit the families of Sadsbury Monthly Meeting, 
and part of those of Bradford. I was comforted in finding 
this exercised Friend under this concern, and trust she will 
be strengthened to fulfil it to her own peace, and the honor 
of the Great Head of the Church, who not only puts his own 
forth, but goes before them. 

T. K. TO HIS SON THOMAS. 

First month 29th, 1843. 
[After narrating several deaths, he adds :] Thus are our 
elder and younger Friends called away ; and these and 
many other instances of mortality, ought to awaken us to in- 
creased diligence in making our calling and election sure. 
So many valuable Friends have been of latter time removed 
from the important posts they occupied in the Church, that 
desires can hardly fail to be excited, that our dear young 
Friends may effectually take up the cross, and become cruci- 
fied to the world and its bewitching vanities ; prepared by 
the Great Head of the Church to fill the vacant places, and 



360 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1843. 



to show forth out of a good conversation their works with 
meekness of wisdom. Nothing in relation to thee could 
gratify me more, than to know that thou hadst become a 
firm, decided, consistent, cross-bearing follower of the Lord 
Jesus Christ. 

Diary. " Second month 2nd. Fifth-day. At Gwynedd 
Monthly Meeting held at Plymouth. Enlarged in testimony 
to the relief of my own mind. The meeting for business a 
low time. A religious opportunity was had at Hannah 
Williams', where I dined, in which my mouth was opened in 
supplication to the God and Father of all our sure mercies. 

Second month 3rd. Sixth-day. In the evening, with my 
wife, visited Rebecca Allen and family. Before we left 
them, after a time of silence, I had a brief testimony to de- 
liver. 

5th. First-day. At Frankford Meeting. A covering of 
good attended. I stood up with the subject of the appear- 
ance of Jesus to his disciples, walking on the water, whilst 
they were tossed with the waves, the wind being contrary 
unto them. I was considerably enlarged on that and other 
topics, speaking also to various states. Returned home in 
time to attend evening meeting, in which Truth did not seem 
to arise into dominion, although a valuable Friend had a 
short communication. Afterwards called with my wife at 
Benjamin Albertson's, and divers Friends being present, we 
were drawn into silence, and Phebe Roberts was engaged 
in a short testimony, after which I also appeared. 

6th. Second-day. At our own Quarterly Meeting. Seve- 
ral Friends [E. Comfort and E. Pitfield] labored pertinently 
in the first meeting. That for business was not entirely satis- 
factory : there was much to engage its attention, preparatory 



1843.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



361 



to the approaching Yearly Meeting; aud perhaps it was too 
much hurried. 

7th. Third-day. At Abington Monthly Meeting. A 
season of favor, in which I was enabled to speak to various 
states, bringing into view the language of the prophet, ' Then 
they that feared the Lord spake often one to another ; and a 
book of remembrance w T as written before Him for them that 
feared the Lord, and thought upon his name. And they 
shall be mine, saith the Lord of Hosts, in that day when I 
make up my jewels ; and I will spare them, as a man spareth 
his own son that serveth him.' Afterwards attended the 
Select Preparative Meeting, and felt sympathy for the few 
who were present. 

8th. Fourth-day. At our Quarterly Meeting of Minis- 
ters and Elders. I thought it a solid time. I was enabled 
to bear testimony to the manner in which the Lord's chil- 
dren are enabled to rejoice in his presence : it is after en- 
during toils, and trials, and various conflicts, and being 
strengthened to keep the faith through all, according to the 
testimony of the prophet, ' They joy before thee according to 
the joy in harvest, and as men rejoice when they divide the 
spoil.' I was also led to speak of the duty of watchmen as 
set forth by the prophet Ezekiel. In the evening, at Sarah 
Churchman's, a religious opportunity occurred, in which she 
and her two daughters were separately addressed. Margaret, 
the youngest, seems very near, in the Truth. May she be 
found faithful. 

9th. Fifth-day. After lodging at Samuel B. Morris's, at 
the breakfast table I had to address his son, who is but a 
lad, endeavoring to encourage him to live in the fear of the 
Lord. Then went to Abington Quarterly Meeting. The 
Great Head of the Church was near, to our comfort, enabling 
24 



362 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1843. 



several servants to advocate his cause, and spreading over the 
assembly a covering of solemnity. I stood up with the caution 
addressed to each of the seven Churches, in the Revelations : 
1 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the spirit saith unto 
the Churches.' I was led to take a view of our Society in 
its early days, the chaste love and zeal of its primitive mem- 
bers, the degeneracy Which has crept in, the goodness of our 
Almighty Helper, in raising up and qualifying instruments 
to recall us to first principles, with some prospects concerning 
future times, and exhortations to individual faithfulness. 
The business seemed to be cou ducted in a good degree of the 
savor of Truth. On the whole, thankfulness is the covering 
of my spirit for this day's favor. 

Second month 10th. Sixth-day. At an appointed meet- 
ing at Abington. A low time ; yet was enabled in some de- 
gree to relieve my mind by addressing various states." 

Extract from a letter to his daughter Rebecca : 

" Second month 10th. Think seriously whether it may be 
thy place to offer [as a teacher at Westtown], but say very 
Tittle about it. The opinions of thy friends may confuse thy 
mind ; whilst feeling after Divine direction may rectify and 
settle it. There is a right place for every one of the Lord's 
children, and it is his prerogative to point it out." 

Diary. " 12th. First-day. At Plymouth. I was con- 
cerned to open the nature of spiritual worship, from the dis- 
course of our Lord with the woman of Samaria at Jacob's 
well. The meeting was rather heavy and laborious. Dined 
at Jacob Robert's, and had a religious opportunity in his 
family. Afterwards visited Josiah Albertson, confined with 
a paralytic attack, and had a sitting in his chamber. Then 
went to Gwynedd, and lodged at the house of Mary, the 
widow of my late friend, Jesse Spencer. 



1843.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



363 



13th. Second-day. Had an appointed meeting at Gwynedd, 
to my comfort. The Gospel was preached, and towards the 
close, Phebe Roberts, daughter of my friend Hannah Wil- 
liams, appeared in supplication. Went to George Spencer's, 
at Moreland, to lodge. 

14th. Third-day. At an appointed meeting at Horsham, 
I was opened on the testimony and invitation addressed by 
Moses to Hobab, ' We are journeying unto the place of which 
the Lord said : I will give it you ; come then with us, and 
we will do thee good ; for the Lord hath spoken good con- 
cerning Israel.' I was strengthened to speak to various 
states, and was afterwards engaged in prayer and thanksgiv- 
ing. Went to Thomas Wistar, Jr.'s, to lodge. 

15th. Fourth-day. Went to Byberry week-day meeting. 
A very small company attended ; yet a covering of good was 
vouchsafed. I was unexpectedly opened on John's baptism, 
and Christ's baptism, in which I had a testimony to bear, 
with reference to various states. After which I was engaged 
to bow my knees in vocal adoration and supplication. This 
meeting, which completes my present religious concern, was 
relieving to my mind ; and after dining at David Comfort's, 
I returned to the city, under a thankful feeling that Divine 
aid had been extended throughout this journey to me, an un- 
worthy creature. May my future life be more entirely de- 
voted to the service of the Lord my God, in the Gospel of 
his dear Son. My friend Jeremiah Hacker, has been accept- 
ably my companion in this religious engagement." 

From the letters of T. K. it appears that the weather was 
cold during the time he was performing this visit, and that 
heavy snow-drifts made the travelling difficult. 

Diary. " 19th. First-day. In the morning meeting a 
testimony was delivered on the words of our Lord to Peter, 



364 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1843. 



' Simon, Simon ; behold, Satan hath desired krhave you, that 
he may sift you as wheat ; but I have prayed for thee, that 
thy faith fail not ; and when thou art converted, strengthen 
the brethren. 7 Encouragement was offered to the tempted 
and tried. The afternoon meeting was silent. In the even- 
ing meeting, after Elizabeth Evans had appeared in testi- 
mony, I was drawn forth in vocal thanksgiving and prayer. 

22nd. Fourth-day. I attended the funeral of J. M. 
Whitall's son, aged two years. At the house, Sarah Hillman 
addressed the parents of the child, and others present; after 
which I had something to communicate. 

23rd. Fifth-day. Our Monthly Meeting. William Evans 
was acceptably engaged in public labor, showing that where 
there is faith and obedience, there will be growth. 

25th. Seventh-day. Called at J. M. WhitaH's. The 
company present were drawn into silence, and I was engaged 
in ministering to various states. His wife was particularly 
addressed." 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

Philadelphia, Second month 25th. 
* * A few copies of the memorandums of Jane Bettle 
having been placed in my hands for distribution, I have con- 
cluded to forward one to thee, supposing thou wouldst value 
it as a memento of our deceased friend. Thy aunt Mary went 
on Fifth-day morning in the stage [to Concord], to assist in 
nursing cousin Edith Jefferis. * * We hear unpleasant 
tidings from the West. The ultra-abolition members of In- 
diana Yearly Meeting have organized a separation from our 
Society. Daniel Prickett and Charles Osborne are promi- 
nent men in this movement. 



1843.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



365 



In regard to Edith Jefferis' illness, alluded to in the fore- 
going letter, Susanna Sharpless thus wrote, under date of 
Second month 20th : " Probably you have received intelli- 
gence of the alarming illness of our dear cousin E. J. It is 
a very affecting example of the uncertainty of life and health. 
She went down to Concord on Fifth-day afternoon to help 
aunt Phebe [Middleton] prepare for Quarterly Meeting. In 
the afternoon she raised some blood from the lungs in small 
quantities, yet enough to induce them to send early in the 
morning for Dr. Marsh. He directed her to keep still in 
bed, and hoped there would be no increase. About four in 
the afternoon of that day (Sixth), a much larger hemorrhage 
occurred. This excited a good deal of alarm in our dear 
cousin, who now asked for her mother and Dr. Thomas ; but 
the roads were not good, and a difficulty of sending, prevented 
their getting there until ten next morning, w T hen a great dis- 
charge had just occurred. Since then there has been an in- 
crease, attended with cough. The doctors gave strict orders 
that none should see her ; they also enjoined great quietness 
and composure in those necessarily in her room. Any exer- 
tion of her own, as turning, &c, produces some discharge. 
Her strength is greatly prostrated, and fever accompanies 
the disease,- — both unfavorable symptoms. Her dear mother 
was calm, and met the trying dispensation in a manner that 
awoke my admiration ; but she is too feeble for nursing in 
such an illness as this. * * It seems as if the blow is so 
great, that I cannot at all realize it. Out of my father's 
household, there is no friend so near and dear to me as this 
beloved cousin. From our early years .we have been as 
sisters, and you know of latter time how closely we have been 
united in the sweet bond of Christian fellowship. To me she 
has often had a word of counsel and encouragement, that has 



366 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1813. 



helped me on my way. During the late pleasant visit she 
paid me, she said she had had some very peculiar feelings 
lately in looking to the future, and was ready to think her 
days' work was nearly done. I hoped otherwise. Yet, what 
dare we say ? Shall not the Judge of all the earth do right ? 
He may see meet to call away those whom we deem useful 
instruments in his hand, and to whom we look for help in 
these clays of treading down and of perplexity. Where shall 
we see her mantle fall in our poor stripped meeting ? We 
felt the influence of her spirit there. Her dear, feeble mother, 
who looked to her as the prop and stay of her declining clays ! 
how does she call forth the sympathy of her friends I" 

Diary. " Second month 26th. First-day. In the morn- 
ing meeting S. Bettle appeared in testimony ; after which I 
was engaged in supplication. In the afternoon our aforesaid 
friend again delivered a testimony, after which I had to re- 
vive the exhortation of the apostle : ' 1 beseech you, there- 
fore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your 
bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is 
your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this 
world ; but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, 
that ye may prove what is that good and acceptable and per- 
fect will of God.' The evening meeting was long silent, but 
towards the close some labor was extended by a Friend, with, 
I believe, right authority. I thought the meeting ended too 
soon. Care is requisite in this respect, as well as not to con- 
tinue our meetings to an unseasonable length." 

T. K. TO HIS SOX THOMAS. 

Second month 27th.. 
Very often is my mind turned towards thee with affection- 
ate desires for thy preservation from evil. I wish thee to be 



1843.] 



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367 



cautious as to forming intimate friendships. Take no one 
into thy confidence who does not appear to fear the Lord, 
and to be aiming at a consistent life. These who take up 
the cross of Christ, which crucifies to the world and its spirit, 
these are safe companions. 

I feel no fear that thou wilt neglect the attendance of reli- 
gious meetings, either on First or other days ; but I wish thee 
not to rest satisfied with merely presenting thy body at the 
time and place appointed. May it be thy fervent concern to 
be a living worshipper ; and this can only be attained through 
the powerful operation of the quickening Spirit. Those who 
live habitually in the fear of offending their Creator, and 
take heed to their ways in their daily intercourse with men, 
are those who are most likely to experience his blessed pre- 
sence and power to their comfort, when assembled with their 
friends to wait upon and worship Him. 

Diary. " Second month 28th. Third-day. At the North 
Meeting strength was again vouchsafed to preach the Gospel 
of life and salvation, and to encourage my brethren and sis- 
ters to faithfulness. 

Third month 1st. Fourth-day. At the Western Meeting, 
where a marriage was accomplished. I was concerned to men- 
tion the marriage in Cana of Galilee, and the miracle per- 
formed by the Lord Jesus, manifesting forth his glory, and 
confirming the faith of his disciples. William Evans fol- 
lowed in a lively and appropriate testimony ; and a friend 
afterwards appeared in supplication. It seemed to be a good 
meeting. 

2nd. Fifth-day. At our own week-day meeting. I was 
engaged on the subject of some who are ' ever learning, but 
never able to come to the knowledge of the truth ;' showing 



368 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1843. 



that whilst any strive to comprehend the doctrines of religion 
without putting in practice what they already know, they 
are not in the way to become established in the Truth as it 
is in Jesus. I endeavored to keep to the opening ; yet it 
seemed rather a low time. In the. afternoon I attended the 
funeral of David B. Griscom, assistant teacher at our Select 
School, who died after a short illness, in the nineteenth year 
of his age. I sat with the near connections at the house, and 
William Evans was well engaged in testimony ; after which 
my knees were bent in supplication, intercession being made 
for various states present. A good degree of' solemnity pre- 
vailed." 

T. K. TO HIS SISTER MARY. 

Third month 3rd. 
* * Elizabeth Pitfield and Sarah Hillman were yester- 
day at Gwynedd Monthly Meeting, and met with William 
Kirk wood and his companion. They expect, on First-day, 
to be at Germantown Meeting, and then proceed homeward. 
We hear sorrowful tidings from Cincinnati. A fire has oc- 
curred there, and several lives lost, amongst which were two 
of their friends, Caleb Taylor and Joseph Bonsall, son of 
our late friend Isaac. With love to cousin Edith, and all 
connections at Concord, I am, affectionately, thy brother. 

Diary. " Third month 5th. First-day. The morning 
meeting silent, excepting a few words from an aged Friend. 
It seemed a solid opportunity. That in the afternoon was 
silent, and a low time. In the evening, Elizabeth Evans was 
largely engaged in a close testimony ; after which I w r as con- 
cerned to revive the expressions of the Apostle Peter, ' Blessed 
be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which, ac- 



1843.] MEMOIK OF THOMAS KITE. 



369 



cording to his abundant mercy, hath begotten us again unto 
a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the 
dead/ with more of the passage ; setting forth, amongst other 
matters which opened to my mind, the connection of the 
heavenly doctrines of the Gospel ; and the belief w T as ex- 
pressed, that the Lord was preparing, by the visitations of 
his Holy Spirit, those who should bear testimony to these 
doctrines. 

6th. Second-day. Before leaving the breakfast table, I 
had something to communicate, several of our connections 
from the country being present. Then attended the Select 
School for Girls, as one of the Committee on Religious In- 
struction, on which occasion I was engaged in vocal suppli- 
cation. In the afternoon, in company with my wife, and 
several other Friends, I attended the funeral of Samuel 
Rhoads, at Darby. He w 7 as a humble, unassuming man, and, 
I believe, according to his measure, a faithful minister of 
Christ. At the late dwelling of the deceased, Hannah Gib- 
bons was concerned to plead with some whose day's work had 
not kept pace w T ith the day. I followed, bearing testimony 
to the uprightness of my deceased friend and brother, and 
addressed various states ; after which, Elizabeth Evans had 
a close and arousing declaration, in which some present were 
admonished to prepare for the solemn close. 

Third month 7th. Third-day. From a secret impulse I 
went in the evening, and had a religious opportunity with 
Charles Shepparcl and wife, which I thought was measurably 
owned by a covering of good. I w T as led to speak to their 
states, respectively, particularly to that of the latter, who is, 
I believe, passing through deep exercises and conflicts of 
spirit. May the eternal God be her refuge, and underneath 
his everlasting arms. 



370 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1843. 



8th. Fourth-day. Having occasion to call on Eebecca 
Biddle, we were drawn into silence, and a belief was ex- 
pressed, that her present bodily affliction and confinement at 
home, has not only been designed by her heavenly Father 
for her good, but that He has already sanctified it to her. 
She was encouraged to trust in Him, and yield unreserved 
obedience to the requisitions of his Holy Spirit. 

10th. Sixth-day. Visited Elizabeth Baily, the widowed 
mother of Lloyd Baily, who deceased the 12th of last month, 
in the twenty-sixth year of his age. I had a comfortable 
, religious opportunity with her ; she was addressed in the love 
of the Gospel, as also her eldest remaining son and only 
daughter. 

Third month 12th. First-day. Supplicated at the break- 
fast table for my family. In the morning meeting, the sub- 
" stance of the narrative contained in the sixth chapter of the 
2nd Kings, concerning the Prophet Elisha, when the King 
of Syria sent a great host to take him, was impressed on my 
mind, and a testimony was borne. The Lord remains now, 
as in that day, to be the sure refuge of his people, and is as 
able to deliver them out of all their troubles. The passage 
in which Paul addresses an epistle ' to the Church of the 
Thessalonians, which is in God, the Father, and in the Lord 
Jesus Christ,' was also adverted to, and the safety and blessed- 
ness spoken of, of those who, by submission to the power of 
God, are brought into this state, and are thus ' built upon 
the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ 
himself being the chief corner-stone.' After our evening 
Scripture reading, I had something to communicate to my 
nieces and nephew, and also to S. L. In the evening meet- 
ing, after an excellent testimony borne by a Friend [W. E.], 
and a prayer offered by another [E. P.], I was engaged in 



1843.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



371 



reviving, with very little addition, the language of our Lord 
to his disciples, near the time when He was to be taken from 
them, as regarded his bodily appearance, ' Let not your heart 
be troubled ; ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my 
Father's house are many mansions ; if it were not so I would 
have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I 
go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and re- 
ceive you unto myself ; that where I am, there ye may be 
also.' 

14th. Third-day. At the North Meeting. Opened on 
the subject of the transfiguration of Christ, on which a testi- 
mony was delivered. Two communications which followed 
did not appear to add to the solemnity of the meeting ; but 
dear E. Pitfield was afterwards enabled to preach the Gospel 
to the poor in spirit. Accompanied by my wife, I attended 
the funeral of Joseph Price, whose widow Margery is a mem- 
ber of our meeting. At the house I appeared in prayer, and 
at the grave in testimony, commencing with the words of 
Peter, ' Neither is there salvation in any other ; for there is 
none other name whereby we must be saved ;' alluding, as he 
himself explains it, to ' the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth,' 
' which was crucified ; whom God raised from the dead.' I 
was enabled to discharge my conscience faithfully in bearing 
witness to the only means of redemption and salvation. 

Third month 15th. Fourth-day. At Orange street meet- 
ing. Prostrated in supplication to the Throne of Grace. 
Intercession was made for the gift of repentance, for forgive- 
ness of sins, and for the renewal of faith ; for ministers, that 
they might be kept from falling, be strengthened to finish 
the work assigned them, and be finally numbered amongst 
those who have turned many to righteousness, and who shine 
as the stars, forever and ever. Request was made that the 



372 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1843. 



Lord of the harvest would be pleased to send forth laborers 
into his harvest. Other petitions were presented, and thanks- 
giving and praise was offered up to Him who sitteth upon 
the throne, and unto the Lamb. 

17th. Sixth-day. At the Meeting for Sufferings. A 
solid time, in good degree favored ; a united exercise pre- 
vailing for the promotion of the cause of Truth." 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

Third month 17th. 

* * We had Christopher Healy to tea last evening, and 
it proved so stormy that he concluded to stay all night, which 
pleased us very well. He did not leave us until near ten 
o'clock, when he went to the Meeting for Sufferings. How 
many smiles his liveliness called up in S. L.'s face I cannot 
tell ; certainly not a few, and she seemed quite to enjoy his 
company. * * Ezra Comfort dined here after meeting, 
and sat with us until near four o'clock. 

Diary. " 19th. First-day. A short testimony was de- 
livered in the afternoon meeting to the necessity of humility 
and meekness, and setting forth the duty of submission to 
those dispensations by which our heavenly Father would 
subdue in us all loftiness of mind, and put on us the orna- 
ment of a meek and quiet spirit. And those who are thus 
prepared, He will guide in judgment and teach his way." 

T. K. TO HIS SON THOMAS. 

Third month 19th. 

* * The sorrowful tidings respecting J. Bonsall and C. 
Taylor, we had received through the public papers, yet thy 
communication made us acquainted with some additional 



1843.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



373 



particulars- There are two considerations present themselves 
on this occasion, neither, I presume, new to thee, but I men- 
tion them to corroborate sentiments which, I doubt not, have 
been raised in thy mind. One is, the loud call such events 
make to survivors to be anxiously engaged in preparing for 
another state of being, for unless an interest in Christ be se- 
cured by submitting to his power and bearing his cross, life 
will have been lent us in vain, or only to add to our con- 
demnation, by bringing on ourselves the sentence of exclu- 
sion from heaven and happiness. The other consideration is, 
that the removal of useful members from the Society, neces- 
sarily brings an increased burden on the faithful members 
who remain, and ought, therefore, to excite the younger and 
less experienced ones to be willing to submit to that Power 
which can alone enable them rightly to assist in supporting 
the cause of Truth. It is not merely being ready to act when 
called on by our friends ; but it is to submit to the restrain- 
ing, regulating, regenerating power of Truth, which brings 
our conduct and our thoughts into right order, and begets a 
living exercise of soul for our own improvement and preser- 
vation, in the first place, and then for the encouragement and 
help of others. I hear occasionally of thy regularity in at- 
tending meetings, which is grateful to my paternal feelings, 
but I want to encourage thee to an increase of concern to be 
found amongst the living worshippers ; those who worship 
God in spirit, rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence 
in the flesh. 

I suppose when I wrote by B. C, I mentioned that cousin 
E. JefFeris had been affected w r ith a hemorrhage from the 
lungs. The bleeding has very much ceased, and she appears 
recovering slowly. Thy aunt Mary continues with her. 
Uncle John Letchworth continues feeble, and is confined to 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1843. 



his room. * * C. Healy lodged at our house on Fifth- 
day night, and we were much interested with his account of 
some things he saw in the West during his late journey, and 
also some particulars of his early life. He is much devoted 
to the service of his Divine Master. We also had on Sixth- 
day the company of other valuable Friends. The wish some- 
times arises that our T. could enjoy with us these privileges, 
yet we know, if faithful, the Lord can make up to him every 
privation. Although the state of Sardis of old was very low 
as to the life of religion, yet even there the Lord preserved 
a remnant to himself. " Thou hast," said the faithful and 
true witness, " a few names even in Sardis, which have not 
defiled their garments, and they shall walk with me in white, 
for they are worthy." How blessed a thing it is to be of 
this number. 

Diary. " Third month 23rd. Fifth-day. In our week- 
day meeting I felt an engagement to address the children 
and youth, many of whom were present, on the words of the 
wise king, ' He that loveth pureness of heart, for the grace of 
his lips, the king shall be his friend.' I endeavored to dis- 
charge myself in faithfulness, but the power of Truth did not 
appear to rise into much dominion. If any of the precious 
lambs were benefitted, to the Lord alone be the praise ; to 
me belong blushing and confusion of face. In the evening, 
after spending some time in social intercourse at a Friend's 
house, a season of silence ensued, and a short testimony was 
delivered. Lord, preserve me, lest having ' preached unto 
others, I myself should be a castaway.' " 



1843.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



375 



T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER SUSANNA. 

Third month 24th. 
r [After stating circumstances prohibiting him from paying 
a visit to her, the letter continues :] I console myself with 
the prospect of seeing thee at Yearly Meeting. We under- 
stand Joseph Edgerton is likely to be with us at that time. 
We have only heard of one other Friend in the ministry, 
that is, Zeno Carpenter, of Utica, who expects to attend the 
approaching annual assembly ; yet probably we shall have 
others. As the time approaches, those who are concerned 
for the cause of Truth can hardly fail to feel some exercise of 
mind, in desire that the right thing may prevail, and Friends 
be edified and comforted. I believe such an engagement 
is profitable for the older and younger branches, especially 
in this day of trial, in which we hear sad tidings from the 
east and from the west. Our friend, John Wilbur, is dis- 
owned, and C. Osborne has put himself at the head of a 
movement which has ended in a separation from Indiana 
Yearly Meeting and the establishment of " Indiana Yearly 
Meeting of Anti-Slavery Friends." It is probable there will 
be much trouble from this source, as well as from the causes 
which are in operation in New England. Meanwhile, how- 
ever, " the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, 
the Lord knoweth them that are his," and his faithful fol- 
lowers may still rely on his protecting power, for " his king- 
dom ruleth over all." " He can cause the wrath of man to 
praise Him, and the remainder of wrath he can restrain." 

Diary. " Third month 26th. First-day. In our after- 
noon meeting I was engaged in testimony, from the words 
of the Lord Jesus to his disciples, ' I am the true vine, and 



376 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1843. 



my Father is the husbandman.' The evening meeting was 
the last of this character for the present season. A stranger 
present [William Kirkwood,] had a brief communication, 
and another Friend [G. M. E.] appeared in prayer : after 
which I stood up with the words of Christ to Nicodemus, 
6 As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so 
must the Son of man be lifted up ; that whosoever believeth 
in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life direct- 
ing sinners to the only means of salvation, even Him who 
declared himself to be the resurrection and the life. Eliza- 
beth Pitfield preached Christ in a living testimony, and 
Elizabeth Evans was afterwards engaged in supplication. A 
solemn covering attended ; and it was a good close to those 
meetings, which for the past winter have been held for 
Friends in the city generally. For the most part they have 
been held to the honor of our Holy Head ; and to our own 
edification and comfort. After meeting I went with my 
wife to Caleb H. Canby's ; unexpectedly a silent pause took 
place ; and I was drawn to speak encouragingly to a young 
woman Friend from the country who has lately been mar- 
ried : afterwards I had also to offer counsel to the young 
people of the family. 

28th. Third-day. Feeling drawings to sit with a Friend 
of our meeting, who has been a widow for many years, I 
gave up thereto, and counsel and encouragement were im- 
parted. 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

Fourth month 1st, 1843. 
I received thy letter dated 28th ult., and have reflected 
on its contents, and also consulted with thy mother. We 
consent to the course thou art best satisfied to take [offering 



1843.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



377 



herself as a teacher at Westtown]. It will be some privation 
to us, should the committee accept thy offer, which I have 
communicated to the women Friends appointed on the sub- 
ject ; but it will be a comfort to believe thee to be in thy right 
place ; endeavoring to be useful. My desire is, that every 
day thou may est seek after Divine ability to discharge the 
duties of the passing day, and leave the future. It seems of 
little use to strain our mental vision by endeavoring to see 
what is before us, and which in w r isdom and kindness is often 
concealed from our view T . The prospect of having thee with 
us during vacation, is truly pleasant. Our annual assembly 
is nigh at hand ; the thought awakens many reflections ; the 
deep importance of the occasion ; the desire that the right 
thing may prevail ; the weak be strengthened, and the 
mourners comforted ; the remembrance of dear friends with 
whom we have mingled on similar occasions, whom we shall 
see no more, because they have put off the shackels .of 
mortality, and entered, as we trust, into their everlasting 
rest. These and other considerations, such as the swiftness of 
time, &c, are salutary thoughts, which I hope may make 
their due impression on my mind, and on the minds of some 
who are dear to me, and particularly on thine, my precious 
child, whose advancement in the way of self-denial and the 
daily cross, which is the highw 7 ay of holiness, I ardently 
desire. 

Diary. " Fourth month 2nd. First-day. In the morn- 
ing meeting the words of our Saviour were remembered and 
rehearsed, ' Except ye repent ye shall all likewise perish/ 
The necessity of ' repentance towards God, and faith in our 
Lord Jesus Christ,' were enforced, with a testimony to the 
mediatorial office of Jesus, from the intercession of the dresser 
25 



378 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1843. 



of the vineyard, in the parable of the barren fig tree, ' Lord 
let it alone this year also, till I shall dig about it, and dang 
it, and if it bear fruit, well ; and if not, then after that thou 
shalt cut it down.' Some present were exhorted to repent 
and turn to the Lord, whilst a renewed evidence of Divine 
visitation is in mercy extended. In the afternoon, the young 
people were addressed from the caution of- the apostle, ' Be- 
ware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain 
deceit ;' warning being extended respecting the company 
they kept, and the books they read. In the evening, in an 
opportunity with my family, I was concerned to approach 
the Throne of Grace in vocal supplication on their behalf 
and my own. 

9th. First-day. I was sensible of a gentle pointing to 
attend the Western Meeting. Giving up thereto, I was 
enabled after a time of silence, to bear testimony to the Lord 
Jesus Christ as the Author of eternal salvation to all who 
obey him ; bringing into view some of the expressions of 
George Fox. At our own meeting in the afternoon, the con- 
dition of the impotent man being before me, some words 
were spoken relative thereto ; and a belief expressed, that He 
whose word is with power, is willing to heal us of our spiritual 
infirmities. 

13th. Fifth-day. My aged relative, John Letchworth, 
departed this life about four o'clock this morning, aged 
nearly eighty-five years. His first appearances in the 
ministry were about the time of my great awakening, 
near forty-one years ago, and they were instrumental of good 
to me. I believe he was faithful according to the gift dis- 
pensed to him, and that he was Divinely supported under 
many trials ; so that he remained green and lively in old 
age, and his end was peace. 



1843.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



379 



14th. Sixth-day. I heard of the decease of our beloved 
niece, Edith Jefferis. She was one who feared the Lord 
from her youth, and through Divine mercy she was enabled 
to follow her crucified Saviour in the narrow way which 
leads to life. A gift of Gospel ministry was dispensed 
to her, in which she was acceptably exercised during the 
last few 7 years of her life. In the Second month she had an 
attack of hemorrhage of the lungs, and has been declining 
since. She died a little after midnight this morning, aged 
thirty-two years. I believe the testimony which John heard 
from heaven is applicable to her ; ' Blessed are the dead 
which die in the Lord from henceforth ; yea, saith the Spirit, 
that they may rest from their labors, and their works do 
follow them.' 

15th. Seventh-day. Attended the first sitting of the 
Yearly Meeting of Ministers and Elders ; and went with 
my wife in the afternoon to Concord to attend the funeral of 
our aforesaid neice. 

16th. First-day. The remains of dear Edith were in- 
terred before meeting. We were favored with seasons of 
solemnity at the house, by the grave, and when assembled 
for worship. I was concerned in testimony at the former 
place, also very briefly at the graveyard. In the meeting, 
Sarah Emlen first broke the silence, commencing with this 
passage, i Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of 
his saints.' Afterwards I spoke to several states, believing 
a renewed call had been extended to some who were then 
present, and who w 7 ere exhorted to faithfulness. After which 
I was led to speak of the deceased, and to commemorate that 
Grace by which she was what she was. 

22nd. Seventh-day. The Yearly Meeting closed. It has 
been an instructive season, many concerns relative to the wel- 



380 MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1843. 

fare of Society having been disposed of with much unanimity. 
The Meeting for Sufferings had prepared, ' An Address to 
our members/ unfolding the spiritual nature of the Gospel 
dispensation, and calling upon them faithfully to support the 
doctrines and testimonies which were dear to our forefathers. 
It was united with, and directed to be printed. The same 
body had also prepared an account, derived from authentic 
sources, of the rise and progress of the concern in our Society 
on behalf of the descendants of Africa, and the successive 
steps by which Friends were led to clear their hands of the 
evils of slavery. This document was likewise directed to be 
printed. A concern on behalf of the children belonging to 
the Society, led to an address to parents on their account, to 
go down to the subordinate meetings and the appointment of 
a committee to have charge of the subject of education. On 
the occasion of the new separation within the bounds of 
Indiana Yearly Meeting, suitable sentiments were addressed 
K to that meeting, and to all the others on this continent and 
those of London and Dublin. The meeting separated under 
a grateful sense of the Lord's unmerited goodness to his 
Church and people/' 

T. K. TO MARTHA JEFFERIS. 

Fourth month 22nd. 
Dear Sister : — The Yearly Meeting has closed ; we 
have just dined ; our friends are scattering, and amidst the 
bustle of packing up and leave-taking, I am endeavoring to 
compose my mind to address a few lines to thee. It is need- 
less to attempt to describe my sympathy with thee, or the 
fervency of my desire that the " Lord may hear thee in the 
day of trouble, the name of the God of Jacob defend thee, 
send thee help from his sanctuary, and strengthen thee out 



1848.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



381 



of Zion." Thou knowest the brotherly affection I have enter- 
tained for thee daring many years, which is in no degree 
lessened in this, the season of an additional affliction ; but I 
trust He who has been with thee in former trials, will be 
very near to thee in this ; and that thou wilt know his name 
to be a strong tower, into which the righteous run and are 
safe. 

We have had a good Yearly Meeting. * * * The 
evidence of the Lord's gracious presence was, at times, 
vouchsafed, and a comfortable solemnity crowned the close 
of the last sitting. 

Diary. " Fourth month 23rd. First-day. In the morn- 
ing meeting I spoke on Paul's thorn in the flesh ; the messen- 
ger of Satan to buffet him, lest he should be exalted above 
measure. The afternoon meeting was silent. In the even- 
ing I had the satisfaction of having the company of all my 
children, my youngest son being now here on a visit. After 
our usual Scripture reading, in a season of retirement my 
mouth was opened in thanksgiving for many mercies, and in 
supplication for the children, and for my dear companion and 
myself, as well as for the other inmates of my family who 
were present. Afterwards I had some brief exhortations to 
offer to divers of the company. 

30th. First-day. In the afternoon meeting I was con- 
cerned to speak from the words of King David, ' The Lord 
my God will enlighten my darkness ; for by thee I have run 
through a troop ; and by my God have I leaped over a wall/ 

Fifth month 1st. Second-day. At our Quarterly Meet- 
ing. On first sitting down a degree of solemnity was attend- 
ant. Impressions were received concerning several valuable 
members of this meeting, of late removed from amongst us, 



/ 



382 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1843. 



and an evidence seemed to attend that they had finished their 
courses with joy. I stood up with the passage, ' Your fathers, 
where are they ? and the prophets, do they live forever V I 
was enabled to relieve my mind towards several classes, par- 
ticularly the youth. 

3rd. Fourth-day. At the Western Meeting. After long 
sitting in silence, I arose with some impressions towards the 
people, and was enabled to deliver what was before me, to a 
good degree of satisfaction. 

5th. Sixth-day. At Germantown. I called to see the 
children of the late Jane B. Haines, who deceased the 26th 
of last month, after a few hours' illness. I had a sitting with 
these young people, now deprived of their last parent, and 
was engaged to counsel them, and other near connections who 
were present, in the love of the Gospel ; the opportunity be- 
ing to my own peace. Afterwards I went to see my friend 
Alfred Cope, whose wife Hannah died on the 19th of last month, 
leaving him with three small children. I felt tender sympa- 
thy with my bereaved friend, and way opened for a religious 
opportunity with him and his late wife's mother. 

7th. First-day. At morning meeting I was engaged in 
communication on the parable of the householder who went 
out at various periods of the day to hire laborers into his 
vineyard. 

JOSEPH EDGERTON TO T. K. 

!N"ear Barnesville, Belmont Co., Ohio, 

Fifth month 9th, 1843. 
* * I may inform thee, that through the mercy of a 
gracious Providence, I was favored to arrive at my own home 
on Second-day evening, the first of the month. I found my 
family well, excepting our eldest daughter Eunice, and little 



1843.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



383 



Isaac. * * Our meeting was a joyful one ; and mutual 
thanksgiving to the Great Preserver of men for his providen- 
tial care over us, through many conflicts and dangers, both 
within and without. May my soul forever commemorate his 
marvellous loving kindness, and return to Him the most full 
and unreserved obedience the remainder of my days. Truly 
it was all of mercy, that the poor, unworthy, unprofitable 
servant, was led on, supported and qualified, step after step, 
for the allotted portion of service. Most fully do I feel that 
this precious treasure is held in earthen vessels, and, there- 
fore, no marvel if these vessels should have to experience 
many baptismal washings, that the treasure may appear in 
its virgin purity, to the honor of the great Giver, and to the 
present and everlasting peace of its poor, unworthy occupant. 
I often feel for myself, as well as for my dear friends, whom 
our blessed and holy Head hath by his quickening power, 
qualified to speak well of his excellent name, being fully 
confirmed that it is only as w r e keep low and humble, deep 
and fervent in spirit, as in the days of our espousals, that we 
can be preserved alive in the ever blessed Truth, and enabled 
to occupy in that single-hearted dedication which will meet 
with acceptance, when the Chief Shepherd shall appear. I, 
indeed, am one of the least of the family, not worthy of the 
least of the Lord's mercies, yet my spirit is united to the liv- 
ing in our Israel, who are not only waiting for the consola- 
tion thereof, but who also are willing, as Divine ability is 
vouchsafed, to contend for the faith once delivered to the 
saints, and to come up faithfully in every part of the testi- 
monies which our Holy Head laid on our forefathers to bear 
as a seal of allegiance to Him. I do believe there is cause 
for encouragement, even in the midst of the general mass of 
weakness that is to be seen, that for his own seeds' sake He 



384 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1843. 



will arise, furnishing Zion with a new, sharp threshing in- 
strument, having teeth, whereby to thresh the mountains and 
hills of opposition, and so make a way for his own blessed 
cause, which is dignified with immortality, and in the end 
will be crowned with eternal life. 

Our dear friend, Benjamin Hoyle, is set at liberty by his 
Monthly Meeting to attend the Yearly Meeting of New Eng- 
land, which I feel with. I hope if way should open for such 
an act of dedication, he will be supported and strengthened 
by Him who will be head over all things to his Church. 
Much do I feel for the ark of the testimony, and have thought 
that as the living members keep in fervent exercise of spirit, 
prayer will be offered up, which will ascend as the smoke of 
sweet incense, and will conduce to the enlargement of the op- 
pressed seed, in the day when He who hath all power in 
heaven and in earth, shall arise for the avenging thereof. 
My health is much improved, and I never was more pleas- 
antly at home, enjoying a peaceful poverty. 

Diary. Fifth month 9th to 12th. From Third to Sixth-day 
I was engaged in going to, attending, and returning from Salem 
Quarterly Meeting. I had some service in the Meeting for 
Ministers and Elders, and also in the meeting for worship, 
preceding that for discipline, to a good degree of satisfaction. 
I had likewise some more private labor. I enjoyed feelings 
of precious fellowship with some dear friends, to whom I have 
long been closely united, amongst whom was my valued, aged 
brother Joseph Whitall, who has long stood as an upright 
pillar in the house of the Lord. 

14th to 17th. First-day afternoon I left home to attend 
Concord Quarterly Meeting. The Meeting of Ministers and 
Elders on Second-day was a season of favor, the tendering 



1843.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



385 



influence of heavenly good being felt. I had some labor 
amongst my dear friends. On Third-day the meeting did 
not seem so solemn as on some former occasions at the 
same place. Returning homeward, I lodged at the house 
of Jane Garrett, widow of Nathan, and in the morning had 
a religious opportunity with the family, and several friends 
who were visitors, much to my satisfaction, access to the 
Fountain of Divine Grace being vouchsafed in supplication, 
and several states spoken to. Afterwards "I visited tAVO 
Friends, who are indisposed, at their respective habitations. 
Dined at Edward Garrett's, and returned home on Fourth- 
day afternoon. 

18th. Fifth-day. I stood up in our week-day meeting 
with the exhortation of the apostle, ' Examine yourselves 
whether ye be in the faith ; prove your ownselves. Know 
ye not your ownselves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, 
except ye be reprobates ?' I was enlarged beyond expecta- 
tion ; and feel a degree of assurance, that the opportunity 
was not without profit to some. 

21st. First-day. At our morning meeting we had the 
company of Elizabeth Evans, who had acceptable service in 
testimony and supplication." • 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

Fifth month 23rd. 
I returned home comfortably from Concord. On my way 
I lodged at Jane Garrett's ; visited several invalids ; and had 
in several places the company of Thomazine Valentine, a 
young woman of Downingtown, plain in appearance, and 
serious in her deportment, whom I have not before met with. 
She is, I believe, a great-grand-daughter of that eminent 
minister, Robert Valentine. 



386 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1843. 



I incline strongly to the opinion, dear daughter, that thou 
art in thy proper sphere of action, at least for the present. 
That thought reconciles me to the temporary separation. 
What is before us must be left. It is noways inconsistent 
with the idea that thou art in thy allotment of duty, that 
thou hast many trials and exercises, but rather confirmatory 
thereof. Give my love to A. Williams, and accept the same 
for thyself. I hope you may be bound together in the in- 
creasing bonds of a truly religious friendship. 

T. K. TO HIS SON THOMAS. 

Philadelphia, Fifth month 23rd. 
Although we have it not directly from thyself, yet by 
another channel we have information of thy safe arrival at 
thy distant home. It is pleasant to find, that through the 
superintending care of Him, w T ho cares for the sparrows, and 
numbers the hairs of our heads, thou art again in the place 
which seems thy allotted sphere of action. May it increas- 
ingly be thy concern to live answerable to his unmerited 
mercy, so as to become by thy obedience to Divine requir- 
ings, and the steadiness of thy deportment, as a way-mark to 
others, and, as the Redeemer's faithful followers always are, 
as the salt of the earth. 

TO THE SAME. 

Fifth month 25th. 

* * Towards the latter part of the time thou wast with 
us, thou seemed to have so many things to do, and to think 
of, that I omitted a few hints I would gladly have given thee, 
in all a father's tenderness and love. 

Thou knowest my wish that thou shouldst keep to the 
simplicity of dress in w T hich thou w 7 ast brought up, even as 



1843.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



387 



regards outer garments and those for occasional use. The 
plain language I have no reason to believe thou ever departs 
from ; and it is a comfort for me to believe, that the views 
of thy parents have much influence with thee. I did give thee 
a hint respecting female society. I much desire that all in- 
tercourse between young men and young women in our • 
Society, may be of a strictly refined character, and that a 
holy awe of offending their Great Creator, might go with 
them into all social meetings. The last thing I propose to 
mention, is the most important of all ; mayest thou never 
rest satisfied until thou hast the certain assurance from 
heart-felt experience, that the great work of regeneration is 
in progress ; that the Lord is carrying on in thee the work 
of redemption from all evil. However painful the cross, 
yet once thoroughly submitted to, it opens the way to joys 
more pure than earth can give. " The Kingdom of God" — 
the kingdom which our holy Redeemer sets up in the hearts 
of his obedient followers, "is righteousness, peace and joy in 
the Holy Ghost." 

I write rather hastily, expecting to set off in the morning 
for New York Yearly Meeting. William Evans is going in 
company, as well as Samuel Cope, of Chester County. The 
latter also intends attending Rhode Island Yearly Meeting. 



388 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1843. 



CHAPTEE XX.-1843. 

ATTENDS NEW YORK YEARLY MEETING DIARY AND 

LETTERS. 

Thomas Kite was liberated by his Monthly Meeting, 
held Fifth month 25th, 1843, to attend the Yearly Meeting 
of New York. 

Diary. " Fifth month 26th. Sixth-day. Having had 
drawings to attend the Yearly Meeting of New York, I set 
out, and had the company of my beloved friend, William 
Evans, who, as well as myself, had obtained a minute for 
that purpose. 

27th. Seventh-day. In the Meeting for Ministers and 
Elders I had some service. Our friend Samuel Cope, from 
our Yearly Meeting, was well engaged in testimony. 

28th. First-day. Attended the morning meeting in the 
upper room. It appeared to me to be an open, favored time. 
After I had spoken on the parable of the husbandman who 
went out at successive periods to hire laborers into his vine- 
yard, and had been enlarged to various states, William 
Evans followed in a lively and powerful testimony. The 
afternoon meeting in the basement proved a heavy time." 

T. K. to his wife. 

New York, Fifth month 28th. 
We arrived at this place towards evening on Sixth-day, 
and found our friends John Wood and William Birdsall 
waiting on the wharf. Samuel Cope and Moses Baily went 
home with the latter, and William Evans and I are accom- 
modated at the house of the former. Benjamin Bowerman 
is our fellow-lodger, and Prince Gardner, of Nantucket, be- 



1843.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



389 



sides a number of other Friends. On Seventh-day the Select 
Meeting had two sittings. The morning one was a favored 
time ; the afternoon more trying. We attended the Meeting 
for Sufferings in the evening. This morning I called at J. 
A.'s to deliver the children's letters ; afterwards we went to 
meeting, which proved a favored one ; our friend William 
Evans was raised up in a powerful testimony to the everlast- 
ing Gospel. The afternoon meeting was not so lively. 
Friends hold two meetings at the same time in the same 
house. One in the principal room and one in the basement. 
The women hold their Yearly Meeting in the large apart- 
ment — the men below. John Meader is here with a minute. 
We dined on Seventh-day at William Birdsall's ; took tea 
at Thomas Buckley's to be with Smith and Sarah B. Upton. 

Second-day morning. Yesterday dined at William F. 
Mott's, and took tea with Elizabeth Coggeshall. From 
present appearances the Yearly Meeting is not likely to be 
quite as large as usual. I think no less than sixteen repre- 
sentatives to the Select Meeting w 7 ere absent ; for very few 
of whom any reasons were offered. I met with many Friends 
of my acquaintance, and inquiries for thee are often made. 

2{C jfc ifc >fe >fc j)C jfi }}C 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

New York, Fifth month 29th. 
* * * William Evans and I are pleasantly accommo- 
dated at the house of John Wood ; not our old friend of 
that name, but our valuable friend in the ministry. * * 
I do not think the young women in general, appear so plain 
as with us, and yet I have met with some who seem promising. 
A young woman puts up here, who has come nearly five 
hundred miles to attend Yearly Meeting. She has appeared 



390 MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1843. 



in the ministry. I think there are more of this description 
within the bounds of this meeting than with us. May they 
all be preserved in the right line. 

* * * Please give my love to thy uncle Nathan Sharp- 
less and aunt Lydia, thy cousin Joseph Walton and Abby 
Williams. Tell her not to be discouraged because of the 
difficulties the Christian traveller has to meet with ; for the 
Captain of our salvation was never foiled in battle, and re- 
mains to be near to his sincere followers ; and in his own 
time, as faith and faithfulness are kept to, He will give them 
the victory. 

Farewell, dear child ; be humble, circumspect, and keep 
inward to the Lord, and He will preserve thee, and thou 
wilt experience a growth in grace, and a qualification to 
discharge acceptably as in his sight, all the important duties 
devolving on thee. The trials of time will be sanctified to 
thee, and conduce, through the mercy of the Lord, and the 
accompanying baptism of his Holy Spirit, to thy preparation 
for the state of endless happiness in the kingdom of our 
Father. 

Diary. " Sixth month 3rd. Seventh-day. Returned 
home. The Yearly Meeting closed yesterday. It was a 
season of suffering to the upright in heart. Creaturely 
activity, and a want of proper weight, were obvious in many ; 
and a painful sense of unsoundness pervaded the minds of a 
remnant. Yet there were some times of favor ; and the 
conclusions come to appeared to be safe and proper. During 
the various sittings I endeavored, as way opened, to discharge 
my duty honestly; and William Evans and I were concerned 
to visit the womens' meeting in company ; and were enabled 
to relieve our minds to a good degree of satisfaction. On 



1843.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



391 



returning, I felt peace in the belief, that I had been in the 
way of Divine appointment. Our friend Samuel Cope, 
proved himself, on various occasions, a workman that needeth 
not to be ashamed ; and at the close of the last sitting, he 
had a powerful testimony to bear, which I hope will be 
fastened on some minds as a nail in a sure place. 

4th. First-day. I was engaged in vocal labor in our 
morning meeting on the passage, ' These are they which 
came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes 
and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.' " 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

Philadelphia, Sixth month 5th. 

* * * yy e me i with many interesting Friends, [at 
New York,] and amongst these a number of seriously dis- 
posed young persons, some of whom have appeared in the 
ministry. Their manner of conducting the concerns of the 
Society is different from ours. There is with them more 
freedom of discussion and diffuse remark. I like our own 
way the best. It seems to me that skilful, tender fathers 
and mothers in the Truth might find appropriate business in 
caring for and watching over the youthful preachers, and 
some other ardent juvenile personages, who seem to have 
plenty of zeal, which is not always according to true knowl- 
edge. A strong anti-slavery feeling prevails in many sections 
of New York Yearly Meeting. * * * 

nathan kite to thomas kite, received by the latter in 
New York. 

Philadelphia, Fifth month 31st. 

* * * The committee from Virginia arrived on Seventh- 
day afternoon. They were kindly entertained at the house 



392 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1843. 



of N. Crenshaw ; and perhaps have returned rather improved 
in health. The committees of the different Yearly Meetings 
united in proposing that Virginia Yearly Meeting should be 
laid down ; that its Quarterly Meetings should be suspended ; 
and that a Half Year's Meeting should be substituted there- 
for ; that this should be attached to Baltimore Yearly Meet- 
ing ; that, nevertheless, it should have a Meeting for Suffer- 
ings of its own, authorized to act on behalf of the colored 
people, and in all intercourse with the Legislature of Virginia. 
These propositions were fully united with by the Yearly 
Meeting ; and it has adjourned to the usual time next year, 
to receive from Baltimore Yearly Meeting information, 
whether it is willing to accept them. 

David Cope thinks their First-day morning meeting, 
owing to the unsettlement that prevailed, was very unsatis- 
factory, notwithstanding an abundant supply of ministry. 
David was much interested in the proceedings of the Meet- 
ing for Sufferings, and its care over the rights of the colored 
people. Some remarkable instances of this care he related. 
Micajah Bates was clerk of the Men's Yearly Meeting, and 
the w 7 ife of Micaj ah Crew of the women's. 

N. Crenshaw^ was acknowledged a minister by the Quar- 
terly Meeting preceding the Yearly Meeting. From the 
reports it appeared that the number of members belonging 
to the Yearly Meeting w as about three hundred, of which 
there w T ere only eighty adult persons. Sarah Hillman men- 
tions one plain little girl of about sixteen who was appointed 
on the Epistles, and on the committee of conference. * * 
At parting after the close of the meeting much affectionate 
feeling was manifested towards the committee; and many 
children clung round them in tears. * * * By informa- 
tion from Indiana it appears that Charles Osborne is travelling 



1843.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



393 



about visiting the meetings that have separated, endeavoring 
to strengthen the hands of the members, and prevent them 
from returning to the Society. 

In one of Rebecca's letters she expresses a desire to this 
effect, that " you ministers from this Yearly Meeting, may 
speak the truth without fear ; and may be enabled to exhibit 
the meekness and gentleness of Christ, whilst honestly labor- 
ing to perform the allotted portion of labor." This is a 
wish in which your friends at home can all join. Be ye 
clothed with the armor of Light, the blessed Spirit of the 
Saviour, and then never flinch from your posts, but in true- 
hearted faithfulness, stand valiantly by that banner which 
he hath given, " that it might be displayed because of the 
Truth." 

It is probable by the time this letter reaches thee, that 
thyself and William Evans will have principally fulfilled 
the service assigned you ; but Samuel Cope, with New Eng- 
land before him, will have great need of a large supply of 
faith and patience. 

t. k. to r. w r . at Blockley, [afterwards R. W. Kite]. 

Sixth month 6th. 
I feel a word of encouragement arise for thee. Paul says, 
" We know that all things work together for good to them 
that love God." Believing thee to have become, through 
Divine grace, a partaker of this love, I feel the comfortable 
hope, as thou keeps near thy Divine Lord and Master, He 
will keep thee ; and cause every trial, every disappointment, 
yea, and every temptation also, to work together for thy 
good. " Tribulation," says the same apostle in another 
place, " worketh patience, and patience experience, and ex- 
perience hope ; and hope maketh not ashamed, because the 
26 



394 MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1843. 



love of God is shed abroad in our hearts, by the Holy Ghost 
which is given unto us." 

Diary. " Sixth month 8th. Fifth-day. I attended Rad- 
nor Monthly Meeting, and stood up in the first meeting in 
much weakness. I was unexpectedly enlarged, particularly 
towards the scholars of Haverford School, who were, I be- 
lieve, mostly in attendance, 

10th. Seventh-day. I paid a religious visit to my com- 
fort to an interesting young Friend. May she be strengthened 
fully to take up the cross, and follow her Divine Master. 

11th. First-day. In the morning I found an enlarge- 
ment to stand up w 7 ith the expressions of the apostle, ' The 
Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the 
communion of the Holy Ghost be with you all. Amen.' 
In the course of the communication I was drawn forth par- 
ticularly to the aged, and had to repeat David's prayer, 1 Now 
also, when I am old and grey headed, O God, forsake me 
not, until I have showed thy strength to this generation, and 
thy power to every one that is to come.' 

13th. Third-day. I went to Wilmington, and returned 
in the evening. Way opened for some religious service. 
Visiting a Friend w 7 ho had been confined about a year 
with the palsy, I had to address her in the language of en- 
couragement, as likewise her husband, mentioning to him the 
language of the apostle, ' We were as sheep going astray, 
but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of our 
souls,' which I believed w T as his situation. Afterwards I had 
an opportunity with my esteemed friend Elizabeth Stroud, 
I believe to our mutual comfort. 

14th. Fourth-day. I attended the Orange street meet- 



1843.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



395 



ing, and had something to communicate ; after which Eliza- 
beth Evans was drawn out in supplication. 

15th. Fifth-day. Towards the close of our week-day 
meeting I was strengthened to approach the Throne of 
Grace in vocal prayer. Petitions were offered for various 
states; for our religious Society, for the professors of the 
Christian name at large, and also for the heathen." 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

Sixth month 16th. 
[After mentioning a visit of his wife to New Jersey, and 
her attending Haddonfield Quarter, he continues] : They 
had a good time at the Quarterly Meeting. Christopher 
Healy, Elizabeth Pitfield, and Sarah Emlen, I believe, 
ministered respectively. Sarah Hill man was also there. The 
first-named Friend has been holding a number of meetings 
amongst those not of our Society, on the other side of the 
Delaware. He particularly wishes the most degraded classes 
invited; not, however, excluded those of greater respecta- 
bility. This is the day of our Meeting for Sufferings, and 
many valuable Friends have been in the city. 

Diary. " Sixth month 18th. First-day. A day of exer- 
cise and labor. In the morning meeting I was enlarged in 
testimony to the Lord's goodness and power in all ages, com- 
mencing with two Scripture passages, concerning an antedi- 
luvian saint, ' Enoch walked with God, and he was not, for 
God took him.' ' By faith Enoch was translated, that he 
should not see death ; and was not found, because God had 
translated him ; for before his translation he had this testi- 
mony : that he pleased God.' I was enabled to relieve my 
mind to a good degree of satisfaction. In the afternoon 



396 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1843. 



meeting I had a short communication to make, on the words 
of the prophet, ' Verily, thou art a God that hidest thyself, 

God of Israel, the Saviour !' I had to offer encourage- 
ment to the sincere-hearted, who are at present shut out from 
a sensible enjoyment of Divine good. Among the promises 
quoted for this purpose was that of the Psalmist : ' The needy 
shall not alway be forgotten ; the expectation of the poor 
shall not perish forever.' After the meeting I attended the 
funeral of James Cresson ; and at the grave had a testimony 
to bear to the necessity of being prepared for death ; which 
was followed by a separatist, endeavoring to invalidate some 
points of doctrine which I had advanced, and to insinuate 
the views of that people against the divinity of the Lord 
Jesus. It was truly painful to hear. 

19th. Second-day. Called on R. Biddle. I was dipped 
into sympathy with her, and had to counsel her to keep 
faithful to Divine manifestations. Afterwards I visited my 
long-acquainted friend, E. C. Mason, and was led renewedly 
to feel for her, and to offer her the word of encouragement. 
May she be kept in the line of simple, unreserved obedience 
to her Lord's commands. 

21st. At the Monthly Meeting for the Western District. 

1 stood up with the words of the unfaithful steward, on which 
I had, as way opened, considerable to say : ' I cannot dig ; to 
beg I am ashamed.' I endeavored to encourage those pre- 
sent to engage in spiritual labor, and also in petitioning for 
mercy and grace to help in time of need. I was wholly silent 
in the meeting for discipline. 

24th. Seventh-day. Poverty has of late been my portion, 
accompanied with the sense of the need of further purifica- 
tion than I have yet experienced. May I be kept inward to 
the Lord, minding carefully to observe Divine direction. In 



1843.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



397 



every season of trial and temptation, may I witness the holy 
preserving fear of the Lord, keeping under my body, and 
bringing it into subjection, lest that by any means, when I have 
preached to others, I myself should be a castaway. In the 
afternoon I attended the funeral of Elizabeth Williams, a 
young Friend, aged about twenty-one years. I had some 
service, both in her late residence and in the burying-ground. 
I have very often been engaged in admonishing others to 
endeavor to be prepared for the solemn change, and may I 
never relax in the concern that this may be my own happy 
experience. 

25th. First-day. We had at our meeting, both in the 
morning and afternoon, the company of our friend Benjamin 
Hoyle, of Ohio, who ministered acceptably. In the evening, 
after our usual family reading, I had a communication to 
make, addressed to a tried state." 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

f Sixth month 27th. 

I have several times turned my attention towards continuing 
my advices, according to thy request, but for the present, way 
does not seem to open to do so ; this is the less material, as 
thou hast, through Divine favor, an infallible Director in 
thy own breast. If thou avoids all that it shows thee is 
wrong, and does all it points out as right, thou wilt indeed 
do well. But if through human infirmity thou falls short, 
be willing to come under judgment; be willing to feel thy 
Divine Master come in with his whip of small cords, to cor- 
rect in mercy, and to turn all out of the temple of thy heart 
that his controversy is with. Zion is redeemed through judg- 
ment, and all her converts by righteousness. 



398 MEMOIIi OF THOMAS KITE. [1843. 

I find it of little use to form plans ; but I wish to see thee 
whenever I can feel at liberty to come to the school. 

Diary. " Sixth month 29th. Fifth-day. At our Monthly 
Meeting I felt poor and depressed. In the afternoon I at- 
tended the funeral of Elizabeth Mason, eldest daughter of 
the late Samuel Mason, at Germantown. Our friend Alice 
Knight, had a lively testimony at the house, in which she 
expressed the belief that the departed was at rest. I found 
it my place to follow her, in an exhortation to some who were 
present. 

Seventh month 2nd. First-day. I attended Germantown 
Meeting in the morning, and was enabled to preach the Gos- 
pel to the relief of my own mind ; after which my beloved 
friend, Elizabeth C. Mason, was favored in bearing testimony 
to the one everlasting Foundation. It was to me a comfort- 
able meeting, and I desire to be duly thankful for the un- 
merited mercy. I returned to the city to our afternoon 
meeting. 

9th. First-day. In the afterifeon meeting, the language 
of the apostle was remembered, ' If there be first a willing 
mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not 
according to that he hath not ;' on which I was drawn forth 
in a brief communication. 

10th. Second-day. I received a visit from Needham T. 
Perkins, a serious young Friend from North Carolina. I 
had a religious opportunity with him, and the counsel im- 
parted appeared to make a suitable impression on his mind. 

11th. Third-day. Attended the Xorth Meeting. I sat 
in great weakness and poverty, but was somewhat relieved 
under the lively ministry of my friend William Evans. 

1 2th. Fourth-day. At the Western Meeting I was favored 



1843.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



899 



in testimony on the case of Esau, who for one morsel of meat, 
sold his birth-right. Counsel and caution were imparted. 

14th. Sixth-day. I went to Haddonfield to attend the 
funeral of my friend Elizabeth Edwards, who in a private 
station, was an exemplary member of our Society. At the 
grave I was enabled to preach the 7 Gospel from the words of 
our Lord to his disciples, ' Let not your hearts be troubled ; 
ye believe in God, believe also in me,' with more of the pas- 
sage. A good degree of solemnity seemed to attend. 

16th. First-day. I felt a concern to attend the morning 
meeting at Newton, and the afternoon meeting at Haddon- 
field. At the first I had an open time in testimony. The 
subject principally treated of was, ' that we must through 
much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.' The af- 
ternoon meeting was less lively ; yet way opened to speak of 
the last passover which our Lord partook of Avith his disciples 
before He suffered,— the nature of typical ordinances,— their 
abolition, and the glorious realities which they prefigured. 
Testimony was borne to the true supper of the Lord, and his 
own emphatic declaration was stated, 1 Except ye eat the 
flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life 
in you.' 

18th. Third-day. I attended the North Meeting, and was 
opened in testimony on the excellency of living faith, 4 the 
substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not 
seen.' 

19th. Fourth-day. I visited William Smith, son of the 
late Thomas, who seems to be near his close, and to be in a 
calm, resigned state of mind. Afterwards I had an oppor- 
tunity with one who has lately been received into member- 
ship with Friends. 

20th. Fifth-day. Our week-day meeting was small, by 



400 MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1843. 



reason of the absence of many of our members from the city. 
Elizabeth C. Mason was well engaged in testimony from the 
words of our Lord, ' This is life eternal, that they might 
know thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom thou 
hast sent.' Near the close I had a short communication, 
commencing w ith the passage, ' Ye are not your own, for ye 
are bought with a price ; therefore glorify God in your body, 
and in your spirit, which are God's.' " 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

Philadelphia, Seventh month 21st. 

* * We do not hear when the English Friends are 
coming. I was told yesterday that two of them, John Pease 
and Isabel Carson were at York Quarterly Meeting the lat- 
ter part of last month, and took leave of the Friends present ; 
so it seems likely they may be here before long. * * I 
do earnestly desire thy encouragement steadily to persevere 
in the straight and narrow way. Very hard it is to submit 
to the baptisms which reduce our own wills into subjection 
to the Divine Will ; but the blessed result is well worth all 
the suffering it costs us. " Be thou faithful unto death ;" 
this is the command, and the promise, " and I will give thee 
a crown of life." 

Again remember me affectionately to A. Williams ; tell 
her it is nothing new for the disciples of Christ to have many 
afflictions in their passage to the land w T here sorrow is un- 
known. Tell her, although she already knows it, yet to stir 
up the pure mind by way of remembrance, that the doctrine 
preached'by Paul and Barnabas, as at Lystra, Iconium, and 
Antioch, is the doctrine which is according to the truth of 
the Gospel ; it is recorded of them, that in those places they 
confirmed the souls of the disciples, " exhorting them to con- 



1843.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



401 



tinue in the faith, and that we must through much tribula- 
tion enter into the kingdom of God." 

Diary. " Seventh month 25th. Third-day. At the North- 
ern District Monthly Meeting. In the meeting for worship 
I had to offer solemn warning and encouragement to different 
states, from the declaration of Christ, ' That servant which 
knew his Lord's will, and prepared not himself, neither did 
according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes. But 
he that knew not, and did commit things worthy of stripes, 
shall be beaten with few stripes: for unto whomsoever much 
is given, of him shall be much required ; and to whom men 
have committed much, of him they will ask the more.' In 
the meeting for business, my dear friend Sarah Hillman ob- 
tained a certificate to attend Ohio Yearly Meeting, some 
meetings belonging to it, and a few within the compass of 
Baltimore Yearly Meeting." 

T. K. TO HIS SON THOMAS. 

Seventh month 27th. 
* * I often feel desirous, and perhaps I often express it, 
that Friends of Cincinnati may increase in the life of true 
religion, so as to set a consistent example to those not of us ; 
and also that they may be prepared to hold all their meet- 
ings — those for worship and those for discipline — with weight 
and dignity ; that nothing may be done in a barren form, or 
in creaturely activity ; but that coming under and abiding 
under the cross of Christ, and waiting for the qualification 
which He gives, all may be done to the glory of the Great 
Head of the Church, the edification of the members, and the 
promotion of the cause of Truth in the earth. 



402 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1843. 



Diary. " Seventh month 30th. First-day. At Westtown 
Boarding School. In the morning meeting I was exercised 
on behalf of the children, the teachers, and other caretakers ; 
and addressed the various classes at some length. In the 
afternoon meeting I was drawn out in vocal supplication. 
Way opened for an opportunity with the three female assist- 
ants, who appeared tender. May they be faithful to the 
Heavenly Guide. 

T. K. TO HIS WIFE. 

Upper Darby, Seventh month 31st. 

I had quite a comfortable ride to the Paoli tavern, on 
Seventh-day morning. A bright little school-girl sat near 
me, with whom I had some interesting conversation. She 
was but nine years old, yet seemed sensible, well informed, 
and religiously disposed. * * I had felt my mind turned 
towards the Monthly Meeting of Darby, which occurs to- 
morrow. On mentioning it to brother X. Sharpless, he seemed 
quite willing to accompany me; so about four o'clock, or a 
little before, we set off. The rain had laid the dust, and the 
road by Bishop's mill was not much muddy, so we had a nice 
ride to Jane Garrett's, where we now are. * * * 

May the Shepherd of Israel be near thee, strengthening 
thee in the resolution to live more entirely to himself, during 
the future days allotted thee, be they many or few, so that 
when the end of thy race here shall arrive, it may be the 
commencement of that state of never-ending felicity, reserved 
for the faithful followers of the Lamb in his everlasting 
kingdom. 

Diary. " Eighth month 1st. Third-day. At the [Darby] 
Monthly Meeting. I was opened in the first meeting on the 



1843.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



403 



nature of the Church of Christ, bringing into view his decla- 
ration to Peter on his acknowledgment, £ Thou art the Christ, 
the Son of the living God ;' ' Blessed art thou Simon Bar-jona ; 
for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my 
Father which is in Heaven. And I say unto thee, Thou art 
Peter ; and upon this rock I will build my church ; and the 
gates of hell shall not prevail against it.' Returned to West- 
town in the afternoon. 

2nd. Fourth-day. Under an impression of duty I had 
an opportunity with the female teachers ; then went to Bir- 
mingham Monthly Meeting. In the first meeting I had a 
short communication. Went after the meeting to my son- 
in-law's, where I had the agreeable company of my two 
daughters and other relatives and friends." 

Of this meeting, one who was present wrote : " His Gospel 
labor was acceptable this day, to many of us. He had a 
word of encouragement to hand forth to those who were 
willing to become disciples of their dear Lord and Master. 
I think it was a comfortable meeting." 

Diary. " Eighth month 3rd. Fifth-day. I went to 
Concord. In the afternoon visited Rebecca, widow of Samuel 
Trimble, and had a religious opportunity in the family, en- 
couraging the bereaved mother and her children to trust in 
Him of w 7 hom it is declared, ' A Father of the fatherless, 
and a Judge of the widows, is God in his holy habitation.' 

4th. Sixth-day. At Concord Monthly Meeting, and was 
again engaged in testimony. Returned to the city in the 
evening. 

7th. Second-day. At Quarterly Meeting. Sarah Hill- 
man's prospect received the necessary sanction, and she w 7 as 
set at liberty to pursue it. May Israel's Shepherd go w T ith 
her and preserve her! 



404 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1843. 



10th. Fifth-day. At our week-day meeting, I had to 
revive a part of one of the blessings pronounced by Moses, 
when he blessed the children of Israel before his death : ' And 
of Levi he said, Let thy Thummim and thy Urim be with 
thy Holy One, whom thou didst prove at Massah, and with 
whom thou didst strive at the waters of Meribah.' I offered 
encouragement to some who had been called to the work of 
the Lord, who had proved him as at Massah, and had striven 
with him as at the waters of Meribah." 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

Eighth month 11th. 
* * * It is probable that B. H. Warder and his sister- 
in-law, Margaret Sheppard, will accompany Sarah Hill man 
to Ohio. It is understood that the expected English Friends 
have taken passage in the steamer Hibernia for Boston, which 
will be looked for from the 16th to the 20th of this month. 
* * * With fresh desires for thy preservation in the 
narrow path, the end whereof is everlasting life, I bid thee 
affectionately farewell. 

Diary. " Eighth month 13th. First-day. I was engaged 
publicly to speak of the sufferings and death of the Lord 
Jesus Christ ; and being dipped into sympathy with those 
who are endeavoring to follow Him in the regeneration, I 
had to offer such encouragement. Afterwards I ventured to 
bow the knee in vocal supplication and thanksgiving. Our 
afternoon meeting was silent. 

r 

T. K. TO HIS SON THOMAS. 

Eighth month 19th. 
I do not wish to weary thee on the subject which is nearest 



1843.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



405 



my heart in relation to thee ; but I can hardly let any letter 
escape me without adverting to it. I am not without my 
wishes for such a share of temporal prosperity for thee as 
thy Heavenly Father may see meet to grant ; but far more 
ardent are my desires for thy spiritual and everlasting well- 
being. Oh ! that thou may be increasingly devoted to thy 
Creator and Redeemer ; that thou mayest be a consistent 
Friend ; a crucified and quickened Christian ; dead to the 
world, but made and kept alive unto God through Christ 
Jesus ; prepared to be a spiritual worshipper of Him who is 
a spirit, and to be a preacher of righteousness in life and 
conversation. Such are greatly needed in our Society, in 
almost every part of it ; and I apprehend, especially so in 
the place where thy lot is cast. Perhaps, through the faith- 
fulness of individuals to the visitations of Divine grace, 
which appear to all, the Lord in mercy may grant you a 
revival of zeal and earnestness for his cause, and unite the 
hearts of some amongst us to labor for a thorough reforma- 
tion, and to endeavor in the ability received to promote 
family discipline, and the discipline of the Church. 

Diary. " Eighth month 20th. First-day. After several 
days of tossing and conflict, wherein I felt oppressed under 
the prevalence of the earthly nature, in our morning meeting 
I felt somewhat relieved ; and an opening for service pre- 
senting, I was strengthened once more to proclaim the way 
of life and salvation. 

23rd. Fourth-day. I felt drawn to attend the Monthly 
Meeting for the Southern District ; and was engaged to ap- 
pear in testimony, commencing with the words of the prophet 
Isaiah : ' In that day shall this song be sung in the land of 
Judah ; we have a strong city, salvation will God appoint 



406 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1843. 



for walls and bulwarks.' My friend William Evans ob- 
tained a minute to attend Indiana Yearly Meeting. 

24th. Fifth-day. Our Monthly Meeting. My mind has 
been exercised of late with a concern to attend the approach- 
ing Yearly Meeting to be held in Indiana. After feeling 
in a good degree resigned thereto, it seemed to be very much 
withdrawn ; within a few days, however, it has revived ; 
and under some feeling, as I believe, of that Power which 
subjects the creaturely will, I opened it to my friends, and 
obtained their concurrence. I now feel a state of peaceful 
poverty." 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER SUSANNA. 

Philadelphia, Eighth month 25th. 
* * * The English women Friends arrived in this 
city yesterday. Isabel Casson is a comely, fleshly person, 
apparently about sixty-five years old. Rachel Priestman is 
small, of slender proportions, and is no doubt much younger. 
Thy mother and I saw them. They seemed affable ; and 
hardly able to realize that in a few days they had made so 
great a change. They met Jacob Green in Liverpool on 
his way to Scotland. 

Diary. " Eighth month 27th.. First-day. At our morn- 
ing meeting I was concerned to revive the Psalmist's decla- 
ration : ' The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom ; 
a good understanding have all they that do his command- 
ments ;' on which I was considerably enlarged in addressing 
various states. In the afternoon meeting an opening pre- 
sented from the book of Psalms ; from which I had to offer 
the consolations of the Gospel to some tribulated minds, it 
being the following : ' How amiable are thy tabernacles, O 



1843.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



407 



Lord of Hosts ! My soul longeth, yea, even fainteth, for the 
courts of the Lord ; my* heart and my flesh crieth out for 
the living God. Yea, the sparrow hath found a house, and 
the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her young, 
even thine altars, O Lord of Hosts, my king and my God. 
Blessed are they that dwell in thy house : they will be still 
praising thee.' 

Ninth month 3rd. First-day. At morning meeting, the 
command given to Moses when he was about to make the 
tabernacle, was revived : 1 See that thou make all things 
according to the pattern showed to thee in the mount.' " 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

Philadelphia, Ninth month 4th. 
My prospect is to attend the Meeting for Sufferings next 
Sixth-day week, and set off for Indiana the same afternoon, 
by way of Baltimore, Wheeling and Cincinnati. If the river 
Ohio is too low for steamboats, I may be under the necessity 
of taking the stage at Wheeling, and proceed directly to 
Richmond. My intention is to try and find time to come 
out and bid thee farewel] before I go ; perhaps on Seventh- 
day next. If I fail, it will not be for want of inclination. 
How long the journey will occupy me, I do not know ; but 
suppose it may take about four weeks. * * * 

Diary. " Ninth month 5th. Third-day. At the North 
Meeting I bent my knees in vocal supplication to the Most 
High. At this meeting my young friends Clarkson Sheppard 
and Anne Garrett took each other in marriage. 

6th. Fourth-day. At the Western Meeting. I was en- 
gaged in testimony on the subject of worship. The circum- 
stance of the two men who went up into the temple to pray, 



408 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1843. 



the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican, was introduced. 
Various states were addressed. 

7th. Fifth-day. At our w T eek-day meeting a short com- 
munication was made, respecting the woman who had an 
alabaster box of very precious ointment, and poured it on 
the Saviour's head as He sat at meat. 

10th. First-day. In the afternoon meeting a testimony 
w r as delivered on the declaration of the apostle : ' Without 
controversy great is the mystery of godliness : God was 
manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, 
preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the w T orld, received 
up into glory.' " 

Isabel Casson and Rachel Priestman had appointed a 
meeting, to be held in the Mulberry Street house, on Ninth 
month 10th. Thomas Kite in a letter to his daughter 
Rebecca, dated the 11th, thus speaks of it: "The meeting 
for the market people, butchers, hucksters, &c, was held on 
First-day evening. It was not very large. The people be- 
haved well. Rachel Priestman had all the public service. 
She spoke twice by way of testimony, and appeared in sup- 
plication. She and Isabel have gone to Jersey to attend 
Haddonfield Quarterly Meeting, and some meetings within 
its limits." 

Diary. " Ninth month 12th. Third-day. At the North 
Meeting, I was opened on the subject of the prophet Jeremiah's 
visit to the potter's house, when he saw, ' and behold, he 
wrought a work on the wheels : and the vessel that he made 
of clay was marred in the hands of the potter ; so he made 
it again another vessel, as seemed good to the potter to make 
it.' I had to express a belief, that a renewed visitation has 
been extended to some who had been as vessels marred upon 
the wheels, and also to caution others upon whom the Lord's 



1843.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



409 



hand is turned to form them into vessels for his use. I like- 
wise had comfort to offer to those who love the Lord, but 
are walking in darkness. Afterwards William Evans minis- 
tered to the afflicted children of our Heavenly Father's 
family." 



CHAPTER XXI.— 1843-1844. 

ATTENDS INDIANA YEARLY MEETING— LETTERS — ILLNESS 
OF DAUGHTER, SUSANNA SHARPLESS— SARAH EMLEN TO 

THOMAS KITE DEATH OF SUSANNA SHARPLESS — SARAH 

EMLEN TO THOMAS KITE. 

On Sixth-day afternoon, the 15th of the Ninth month, 
Thomas Kite left Philadelphia in the four o'clock boat for 
Baltimore on his way to Indiana Yearly Meeting, having a 
minute from his Monthly and a certificate from his Quarterly 
Meeting. His friends William Evans and Henry Cope 
were in company. They reached Baltimore early next morn- 
ing, and took the rail road cars for Cumberland. In a letter 
describing this journey he says : " A most remarkable freshet 
was in the Potomac, and I expect much damage has been 
done by it. People were passing about in boats or flats in 
the street, and we had to pass over a temporary scaffold 
to get to the house where we dined." Owing to fogs in the 
Ohio river, the travellers did not reach Cincinnati until 
Fifth-day morning. They were in season to attend the usual 
week-day meeting there, which was a laborious time. T. K. 
says : " William Evans had very close and suitable service ; 
and after him, something fell to my lot." " Our kind, young 
27 



410 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1843. 



friend, James Taylor, took us in the afternoon to Harrison 
Alderson's to tea. His place is three and a-half miles from 
the city, and is a most beautiful spot. If he can but feel satis- 
fied that he is in his proper place, he will, no doubt, be well 
suited. His wife is quite contented, so far as appears." " We 
returned in the morning to the city ; visited our aged friend 
Ann Shipley, with whom and her daughter we had a satis- 
factory religious opportunity. They are both in improving 
health." " In the afternoon we went to see Ann Townsend, 
the Friend whom Thomas [Kite, Jr.,] has mentioned as ap- 
pearing acceptably in the ministry. She has been recently 
recommended. We had a religious opportunity with her, I 
believe, to her comfort, in which William was opened in- 
structively to speak to her situation." 

Extract from Diary. " We arrived at Richmond, Indiana, 
on Seventh-day evening, and the next morning went sixteen 
miles to Milton to meeting. It proved a low, heavy time, 
yet William was enabled to labor amongst Friends with 
pertinency. We returned to Richmond in the evening. 
Second-day, the 25th, we attended the Meeting for Suffer- 
ings ; Third-day the Yearly Meeting of Ministers and Elders ; 
Fourth-day a large public meeting for worship, in which 
both William and I appeared in testimony, and it seemed in 
a good degree a favored season ; Fifth-day, the 28th, the 
meeting for business opened, and was continued on Sixth 
and Seventh-days. On First-day, Tenth month 1st, two 
large meetings for worship were held. I had the principal 
service in the morning, and William in the afternoon; and 
I trust we were favored to preach the everlasting Gospel in 
a degree of its owm demonstration. The business was con- 
tinued on Second and Third-days, on the last of which it 
concluded, a season of precious solemnity being vouchsafed. 



1843.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



411 



Besides the meetings mentioned, we attended various other 
sittings of the Yearly Meeting of Ministers and Elders, the 
Meeting for Sufferings, committees on Indian affairs, and on 
the concerns of the people of color, and had some service in 
private. The sittings were often long and fatiguing to the 
body, but the comfortable feeling attended, that we were in 
our proper places in being with our Friends, who have been 
brought under great exercise in consequence of the secession 
of some of their members, who have set up and held what they 
call ' The Indiana Yearly Meeting of Anti-Slavery Friends 
an event deeply to be regretted, and which calls for patience 
and forbearance, as well as Christian firmness, on the part 
of those who remain. On Fourth-day William and Henry 
set off from Richmond to attend a few meetings not far dis- 
tant, and I, accompanied by my son, went into Ohio to visit 
my kinswoman, Rebecca, the wife of Abel Thomas. We 
passed through Springboro' and Waynesville to Lebanon, 
where she resides." 

On Fifth-day evening on their way to Lebanon, Thomas 
Kite and son reached the house of Thomas Evans, of Waynes- 
ville, where they lodged. Of this Friend's house T. K. in a 
letter says : " He occupies the brow of a lofty hill, overlook- 
ing the Little Miami River, which is here, a beautiful stream, 
with a range of hills on each side and narrow strips of bottom 
land between it and the hills." 

Thomas Kite reached Cincinnati early on Seventh-day 
morning, where in the evening he was joined by his friends 
William Evans and Henry Cope. His Diary continues : 
" On First-day, the 8th of the present month, we attended 
the meeting in that city. The public labor in the ministry 
devolved on William Evans, yet I was engaged in supplica- 
tion. The members were invited to come together in the 



412 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1843. 



afternoon, when William was again introduced into exercise, 
and much close searching and pertinent counsel was ad- 
ministered. On Second-day morning we had a favored re- 
ligious opportunity in the family of our aged friend, Ann 
Shipley ; after which taking leave of our friends, we went 
on board a steamboat bound for Wheeling, and returned 
homeward by the same route we took in going out, and were 
favored to arrive in safety, at three o'clock in the morning 
of Seventh-day, the 14th of Tenth month, having been absent 
about twenty-eight and a-half days. I travelled in this 
journey 1778 miles, and was permitted to feel much tran- 
quillity of mind in the retrospect." 

In a letter written whilst in Cincinnati, he thus speaks : 
" I have been unwell ever since I arrived in Ohio, during 
the time of the Yearly Meeting, — ever since, and suppose I 
shall be so until I leave this region. It is probably in part 
owing to the water, which out of this city is limestone. Here 
they drink the water of the river. I do not regret, however, 
having come on this journey. I have felt as if I have been 
in my proper place. There is much to deplore in the situa- 
tion of our Society in this wide-spread region, and many 
trials seem in store for the faithful members ; yet merciful, 
loving kindness was near, at times, during their Annual 
Assembly, and best help seemed offered to them. One cause 
of sorrow to me, is the departure of the youth in appearance 
and manners from consistency with our profession. It seems 
more remarkably so with the females. Parents I should 
think, must be, in some measure to blame. Indeed, family 
discipline seems to be at a low ebb. Yet there are very 
large numbers of plain Friends of middle age, and elder, 
who seem concerned for the cause of Truth. Deeply experi- 
enced fathers and mothers seem very few indeed. Yet there 



1843.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



413 



are preserved a few judicious elderly Friends upon whom a 
living concern seems to rest for Truth's prosperity. The 
great amount of business to be done in a limited time, causes 
it to be hurried in the Yearly Meeting in a manner not 
pleasant to us, and which has a tendency to abate the solemnity 
of such occasions. * * * Your family letter was very 
pleasant except the part which announced dear aunt Sarah's 
death.* But I trust her end was peace." 

Diary. "Tenth month 18th. First-day. In the after- 
noon meeting a testimony was delivered concerning the 
faith of Abraham." 

Extract of a letter to his daughter Susanna, dated Tenth 
month 27th : " After the Yearly Meeting was over, thy 
brother Thomas accompanied me into Ohio, to seek for our m 
cousin, Eebecca Thomas, whom we found at Lebanon. Her 
children were with her, but her husband was absent. Neither 
she nor I were at that time aware of her mother's decease. 
This excursion gave me the opportunity of seeing a considera- 
ble part of the celebrated Miami country, as I passed through 
Springboro, Waynesville, &c. It is very rich land, and 
some of it quite beautiful, undulating like the hills of Chester 
county, but with less elevation. Other parts are very flat, 
and I should suppose not so healthy. The water in Indiana 
and Ohio where I have visited, is limestone, and appears to 
disagree with me. The fruits in general were fine, apples 
and pears particularly so, free from blemishes, of a large size 
and finely flavored. The peaches are not superior to our 
own. The Yearly Meeting was very large, and much 
unanimity prevailed on all subjects excepting the boarding 

* Sarah Hayes, a valuable elder of Fallowfield Monthly Meeting, 
and sister of T. K.'s mother. Her death occurred Ninth month 16th, 
1843. 



414 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1843. 



school. Qn education some diversity of opinion exists. Those 
who have separated are not much missed out of the meeting ; 
yet it is a source of deep regret, that such a movement has 
taken place, and that Charles Osborne, a man once so favored, 
should be a leader in it. I did not see him. * * * 
Circumstanced as the Society is in Cincinnati, with a strong 
worldly bias, and few substantial Friends, the younger part 
are under many difficulties with respect to a firm and upright 
support of our testimonies. I do earnestly desire thy brother 
may become one of a band, who may stand in that place for 
the cause and testimony of Truth." 

During the Tenth month, Rebecca Kite spent a short time 
during her Westtown vacation at her father's house. Almost 
immediately after her return to the school, her father thus 
addressed her : 

"Philadelphia, Tenth month 28th, 1843. 
My Dear Rebecca Thou wilt probably feel some sur- 
prise at seeing my well-known hand-writing so soon after 
parting with me. The fact is, that various things were press- 
ing on my mind, and my attention was so engrossed, that I 
hardly feel as if I had taken leave of thee. So thou mayest 
consider this letter as my farewell at the termination of thy 
semi-annual visit to thy father's house. I need not say, be- 
cause I believe thou feels it, that thy presence beneath our 
roof was truly grateful to me, and thy departure left a void 
which, though natural, is still painful. This was alleviated 
by the reflection that, for the present, thy proper sphere of 
action is elsewhere. I fully believe thou art usefully en- 
gaged in thy station, and art desiring to become increasingly 
so. I am persuaded if thy eye be single to Divine direction, 
thou wilt be enabled to discharge the responsibilities which 
rest upon thee, to the advantage of the dear children, and 



1843.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



415 



to thy own furtherance in the way cast up for the redeemed 
of the Lord to walk in. A gracious God condescended to visit 
thy mind in early life with the convictions of his Holy Spirit, 
and to enlighten thee to perceive the transcendent beauty 
and excellency of a life devoted to the pursuit of durable 
riches and righteousness. I believe thou often mourns over 
thyself, that thou hast not made more advances in the way 
of holiness ; but, my dear child, I wish thy encouragement. 
To see wherein we have fallen short, is a great favor ; to 
feel that we have no might of our own, is not less so. Wait 
then on Him who giveth power to the faint, and thou wilt 
find by blessed experience, that to those who have no might 
He increaseth strength. Be encouraged then, to make use 
of the ability which the Lord alone gives, and He will enable 
thee to overcome temptation, to resist evil, to submit to those 
baptisms which purify the heart. He will, I believe, show T 
thee with increasing clearness, in his own time, in what He 
designs thou shouldst promote his blessed cause in the earth ; 
and with the discovery, the power to comply with his will, 
will be offered. If obedient to his requirings, thou wilt feel 
the truth of the declaration of the faithful and true Witness, 
' Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may 
have a right to the tree of life, and may enter in through 
the gates into the city.' 

In the warmth of natural affection, as well as of religious 
desire for thy growth in the Truth, I bid thee fare well,, and 
am thy sympathizing father, Thomas Kite. 

Diary. " Tenth Month 29th. First-day. In the morn- 
ing meeting, Uzzah's attempt to steady the ark was brought 
before me, and a testimony delivered on that and other sub- 
jects. A good degree of solemnity seemed to attend. 



416 MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1843. 



30th. Second-day. Went to Woodbury to visit my 
esteemed friend, Joseph Whitall, and wife. I found that 
the Select Preparative Meeting was to be held next morn- 
ing, and attended it, to my comfort, as also the Monthly 
Meeting, which was held afterwards. In the meeting for 
worship, preceding the latter, I was enabled to preach the 
Gospel, commencing with the words of our Saviour to Nico- 
demus, i The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest 
the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh and 
whither it goeth ; so is every one that is born of the Spirit.' 

Eleventh month 1st. Fourth-day. Went with my wife 
to Germantown, to attend the funeral of my aged relative, 
Lydia Jones. At the ground I had a short testimony to de- 
liver in much weakness. The inward feeling of corruption 
has of late much attended me, and the need of forgiveness, 
together with the washing of regeneration and the renewing 
of the Holy Ghost. 

2nd. Fifth-day. A large assembly at our week-day meet- 
ing, by reason of a marriage. Best help was near, quieting 
and settling the minds of many ; so that unexpectedly we had 
a good meeting, and testimony was borne to the sufficiency 
of the immediate teaching of the Lord Jesus Christ by his 
Spirit. 

9th. Fifth-day. My wife being under appointment, and 
I invited to attend the marriage of Lloyd Balderston and 
Catharine Canby, we were present on the occasion. The 
deportment of my young friends, and their manner of speak- 
ing, were satisfactory. We had a religious opportunity in 
the evening, in which something was communicated. The 
glorious condition of the redeemed, who have been prepared 
to stand before the Throne, and to sing the new song, was 
the principal theme." 



1843.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



417 



T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

Eleventh month 6th. 
This has been the day of our Quarterly Meeting ; of course 
a day of exercise and anxiety to me. I understand the wo- 
men had a trying time. We had also one rather of suffer- 
ing. But it is nothing new for those who are honestly en- 
deavoring to fill up the measure of duty to have to partake 
of sufferings. If we can but be favored to bear it in a proper 
spirit, it will assuredly be sanctified to us, and tend to our 
advancement towards that kingdom where sorrow and suffer- 
ing are no more experienced. 

TO THE SAME. 

Eleventh month 18th. 
The occurrences at Westtown strikingly illustrate the un- 
certainty of temporal things ; the school opened under favor- 
able auspices and looked smiling ; in a few days, indisposi- 
tion was common with teachers and scholars, and since, a few 
cases of a dreadful disease [scarlet fever] has appeared. But 
however changeable the events which happened in our lot, 
the Lord reigneth, and in his boundless goodness He can 
bless every dispensation to his dear children, and will do it ? 
as He is rightly sought unto. That this may be the effect of 
my dear daughter's share of the present affliction, and of all 
others, is the desire of her affectionate father. 

Diary. " Eleventh month 21st. I attended the North 
Meeting from a secret impulse. It proved through Divine 
favor a comfortable time. I stood up and recited the Apos- 
tle Peter's petition for the believers, as contained in his first 
general epistle, ' The God of all grace, who hath called us 



418 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1843. 



unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have 
suffered awhile, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle 
you ; to Him be glory and dominion forever and ever. 
Amen.' I had an open and relieving time in testimony, and 
was followed by Elizabeth Pitfield in a lively communica- 
tion, after which Sarah Hillman was solemnly engaged in 
supplication. 

25th. Seventh-day. This day I was remarkably engaged 
in private labor, having had four religious opportunities, two 
with individuals, one with a Friend and his wife, and the 
other with a mother and her daughter, all to good satisfac- 
tion, being enabled to enter into sympathy with deeply-tried 
minds, and strengthened to offer them encouragement, as well 
as to extend counsel to others. 

26th. First-day. The morning meeting was silent. In 
the afternoon I had a testimony to bear, reviving this pas- 
sage from Ecclesiasticus, 6 My son, if thou come to serve the 
Lord, prepare thy soul for temptation.' The discouraged 
were addressed, and various promises revived of a consoling 
character. The evening meeting was large, and William 
Evans ministered therein acceptably. 

28th. Third-day. At Frankford Monthly Meeting. I 
was drawn forth in supplication. 

Twelfth month 3rd. First-day. I was engaged in testi- 
mony in the morning and again in the afternoon, on each 
occasion to the relief of my mind. My concern of the morn- 
ing was of a more general nature ; in the afternoon a tried 
and afflicted state was much before me ; such were encour- 
aged to trust in the Lord ; and the passage from one of the 
Apochryphal books was rehearsed, ■ Look at the generations 
of old, and see, did ever any trust in the Lord and was con- 
founded ? or did any abide in his fear and was forsaken ? or 



1843.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



419 



whom did He ever despise that called upon Him ?' In the 
evening our friend, John Pease, ministered to a very large 
and, apparently, a very attentive auditory." 

In writing to his son in Cincinnati, a few days previous to 
the last date, Thomas Kite thus unfolds the earnest concern 
that dwelt upon his mind : 

" If anything interesting should occur in your Monthly 
Meeting, please let me know of it. I feel much solicitude 
for Friends of your city, that they may be sound in principle, 
consistent in practice, and witness a growth in vital religion. 
For none of them am I . more concerned than for thee, my 
beloved son. Mayest thou be strengthened to bear the cross 
of Christ faithfully, and follow the Captain of salvation in 
the way of his own blessed leadings. Then, I am satisfied, 
He would guide thee by his counsel even in the things of 
this life, but eminently so as regards those things which per- 
tain to the spiritual life. Though eternal life be the great 
promise of the Gospel, yet temporal blessings are not ex- 
cluded. 'Seek ye first the kingdom of Heaven and the 
righteousness thereof/ said our Holy Redeemer, ' and all 
these things/ alluding to what we need for the comfort and 
support of our bodies, 6 shall be added unto you.' " 

Diary. " Twelfth month 6th. Fourth-day. Much de- 
pressed under a sense of my un worthiness ; nevertheless feel- 
ing a gentle drawing to attend the meeting for the Southern 
District, I went to it, and was somewhat refreshed. A cir- 
cumstance related in chapter 13th of the second book of 
Kjngs, was brought before me, ' And Elisha died, and they 
buried him. And the bands of the Moabites invaded the 
land at the coming in of the year ; and it came to pass, as 
they were burying a man, that behold, they spied a band of 
men ; and they cast the man in the sepulchre of Elisha ; and 



420 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1843. 



when the man was let down and touched the bones of Elisha, 
he revived, and stood up on his feet.' A communication was 
delivered on the subject, with some enlargement of heart, and 
to a degree of comfort. Our friend, Lydia Dean, afterwards 
ministered acceptably. 

24th. First-day. Since the last record I have been oc- 
casionally engaged in small religious services, but there has 
not been an openness to note them down. My prevailing 
feelings have been those of depression, under a deep con- 
sciousness of having fallen short, and a conviction of the 
need of experiencing the further operation of the baptism 
which cleanses. This day, however, I appeared in testimony 
in our morning meeting, commencing with the words of the 
apostle, ' There remaineth, therefore, a rest to the people of 
God.'" 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER SUSANNA. 

Twelfth month 22nd, 1843. 
My Dear Daughter : — By a letter from thy sister to her 
aunt Mary, we have heard to-day of the sickness of thy little 
Elizabeth. We sympathize with thee in this renewed call 
upon thy maternal solicitude, but hope thou wilt be strength- 
ened to confide in the goodness and superintending care of 
thy heavenly Parent. How many are the anxieties and 
troubles through which we have to pass, and yet bow r consol- 
ing to believe that they all are designed to work together for 
our good. " These light afflictions, which are but for a mo- 
ment, shall work out for us a far more exceeding and eternal 
weight of glory." Such is the testimony of that dignified 
apostle, who had learned in whatever state he was, " there- 
with to be content," and who exhorted others " to rejoice 
evermore, and in everything give thanks." This is what I 



1844.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



421 



believe my clear Susanna is aiming at ; yet it is sometimes 
difficult to come to, but through Divine aid, not unattainable. 
How striking is the trust and confidence displayed by the 
prophet, when he said, " Although the fig tree shall not blos- 
som, neither shall fruit be in the vine : the labor of the olive 
shall fail, and the fields shall yield no meat ; the flock shall 
be cut off from the fold, and there shall be no herd in the 
stall ; yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of 
my salvation." 

Diary. "Twelfth month 27th. Fourth-day. At the 
Western Meeting I was enabled to approach the Throne of 
Grace in vocal supplication. 

30th. Seventh-day. Attended the funeral of Amy, a 
daughter of my friends, B. and A. Albertson, who died of 
scarlet fever, aged three and a half years. In the evening 
my wife and I were with the family, and an opportunity of 
religious retirement occurred, in which I had service, both 
in ministry and prayer. 

31st. First-day. I was" silent at the three meetings. In 
the evening my wife and I sat awhile with our friends, Joseph 
and Hannah Snowdon, whose daughter Jane died in the 
morning of scarlet fever. I had to address the bereaved pa- 
rents with words of comfort. 

First month 1st, 1844. Second-day. I attended the funeral 
of the dear child mentioned above. Sitting with tfre parents 
and a few friends, preparatory to removing the body, a sweet 
solemnity prevailed, and our friend, Elizabeth Evans, minis- 
tered acceptably ; after which I revived the case of the disci- 
ples, when they were assembled, the doors being shut, for fear 
of the Jews. It is recorded, ' that then came Jesus and stood 
in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you ; and 



422 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1844. 



when He had so said, He showed them his hands and his 
side/ 

2nd. Third-day. At the North Meeting, where was a 
marriage. I had to speak of the calling of athanael. After- 
Avarcls our friend, Samuel Bettle, appeared in testimony. It 

seemed a favored meeting." 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

First month 5th, 1844. 

There are many cases of scarlet fever in the city, I believe, 
as well as in the country. On Seventh-day last I was at the 
funeral of little Amy Albertson ; on Second-day that of Jane 
Snowdon ; on Fourth-day, that of a child of Levi B. Stokes, 
each having died with that disease. T. F. Scattergood's 
daughter is low with it, and B. A.'s son Charles, has been 
taken sick. Samuel Leeds' wife died a few nights since ; she 
had a cold, but her removal was sudden and unexpected. 
Many are the warnings the living have, and yet too few seem 
to take it to heart. A preparation for the everlasting king- 
dom of righteousness and peace is the one thing needful, yet 
how many are passing along without earnestly seeking it! 
Mayest thou and I, my daughter, be of the number of the 
wise in heart, who are taking the counsel of Him who is the 
way, the truth, and the life, as well as the Light- of men. 
" Walt while ye have the light, lest darkness come upon 
you ; for he that walketh in darkness knoweth not whither 
he goeth. While ye have the light, believe in the light, that 
ye may be the children of the light." 

I have been pleasantly engaged to-day. John Jones' legacy 
was divided amongst the members of the school corporation, 
to distribute to necessitous individuals. I obtained some for 



1844.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



423 



thy aunt Mary's friend, A. D., for Susan K., E. H., thy grand- 
mother's acquaintance, R. Y., and divers others. 

f ' 

TO THE SAME. 

First month 13th. 
I take a small piece of paper because I have little to say, 
yet was unwilling to permit the stage to depart without some 
testimonial of my regard. My desire for thee, as for myself 
is, that as we grow in years, we may experience a greater 
willingness to bear the cross of our Holy Redeemer, and be- 
come qualified by experience to say, with a devoted follower 
of the Lord Jesus, " I am crucified with Christ, nevertheless 
I live ; yet, not I, but Christ liveth in me ; and the life which 
I now live in the flesh, is by faith in the Son of man, who 
loved me, and gave himself for me." 

Diary. Same date. "Seventh-day. For many days past, 
I have felt, to my humiliation, the prevalence of the carnal 
mind ; but this day I have, through mercy, been renewed 
with some sensations of the Divine life, so that I was enabled 
in some degree, to enter into sympathy with, and minister to, 
a friend, who hath many temptations and trials to endure. 

14th. First-day. I was once more enabled to bear a pub- 
lic testimony in our morning meeting, in sympathy with some 
sincere-hearted travellers, who are under discouragement, be- 
cause of the withdrawing of the light of their dear Master's 
countenance. I commenced with the words of our Lord, 
' Can the children of the bride-chamber fast, while the bride- 
groom is with them ? the days will come when the bridegroom 
shall be taken away from them, and then shall they fast in 
those days.' Silence was my lot in the other meetings, and 
aspirations arose in them to the Fountain of Purity, that I 



424 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1844. 



may be washed and purified, and made meet for the inheri- 
tance of the saints in light. 

16th. Third-day. My friend, Samuel Spencer, has come 
to town for medical advice, and is very ill. Calling at the 
house where he is confined, I was invited to see him. He 
seemed clear in his mind. I apprehended the time of his 
dismissal from this state of being was near, and felt, and had 
to express my trust, that all would be w T ell ; ' not by works of 
righteousness which we have done, but of his mercy He saveth 
us, by the washing of regeneration, and the renewing of the 
Holy Ghost.' 

19th. Sixth-day. I was permitted to dip into feeling 
with an exercised traveller towards the city of God, and to 
hand forth a word of encouragement. 

20th. Seventh-day. This morning I met with two dear 
friends, who had been passing through deep conflict of spirit, 
of which I was renewedly made sensible, and to whom way 
opened to minister. 

22nd. Second-day. I went to Moreland, and attended 
the funeral of Samuel Spencer, who deceased the night of 
the 19th inst. His death is a great loss to the meeting he 
belonged to, as well as to his near connections. A sweet 
feeling of the blessedness of the everlasting rest of the right- 
eous attended ; and a firm belief that he had been through 
redeeming love and mercy, prepared to enter into it. I had 
to express the substance of these feelings, as did also our 
friend, Alice Knight. 

26th. Sixth-day. A day of deep depression and mental 
conflict ; yet, calling on business at a friend's house in the 
evening, my mind became tranquillized, and I was enabled to 
minister, to my comfort, to some present, who were no 
strangers to hidden exercises and baptisms unto death. 



1844.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



425 



28th. First-day. The states were respectively addressed 
of such as such as think themselves rich whilst they are poor, 
being destitute of the true riches ; and of such as feel them- 
selves poor, yet being the Lord's poor, and trusting in Him, 
may be considered to be rich in faith, and heirs of the king- 
dom which He hath promised to them that love Him." 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

Second month 3rd. 
* * * In conclusion, the desire again arises that thou 
may give thyself without reserve to the Lord. " Ye are not 
your own, but are bought with a price ; wherefore glorify 
God with your bodies and with your spirits which are his." 
Salute in my name dear Abby Williams ; tell her that " all 
things shall work together for good to them that love God ;" 
and " He that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep." 

Diary. " Second month 15th. Fifth-day. During the 
interval since the last record, I have passed through some 
seasons of deep depression. In our mid-week meeting on 
the 8th inst., I was raised up to minister, which afforded a 
peaceful feeling to my mind. Again I was permitted to 
sympathize with the mourners on First-day afternoon the 
11th, and have of late had some service in private opportuni- 
ties. In our meeting to-day I arose with a sweet impression, 
and was helped to open doctrine and counsel from the words 
of the apostle, ' I beseech you brethren, by the mercies of 
God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy and 
acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service ; and 
be ye not conformed to this world, but be ye transformed in 
the spirit of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good 
and acceptable and perfect will of God concerning you.' " 
28 



426 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1844. 



Second month. On the morning of one of the First-days of 
the week this month, (probably the 11th,) Thomas Kite was 
led sweetly to address his family. He said he remembered 
that the Saviour said to his disciples, " Ye are the Light of the 
world ;" and again He said, " I am the Light of the world." 
He then expressed his earnest desire that those present might 
so partake of the Light of the Saviour, as to shine in their 
respective places, and be as lights in the world. 

On the 18th he wrote to a young friend ; " The work of 
the soul's redemption is a great work ; and many conflicts 
of spirit we must all pass through in whom this work is 
going on. If the Great Master has any special service for 
thee in his Church, beyond being a preacher of righteous- 
ness in life and conversation, which every follower of Christ 
is called to, He will not fail to manifest it to thee, and in 
his own time endue with strength and clearness for his own 
work. Be thou faithful in a little, and He will make thee 
ruler over more." 

Diary. Second month 22nd. Fifth-day. " Having for 
a considerable time felt drawings to visit Friends of Salem 
Quarterly Meeting in their different meetings, I obtained a 
minute for that purpose from our Monthly Meeting held 
this day. Dougan and Asenath Clark were with us, being 
about to embark for Great Britain on a religious visit. 

25th. First-day. In the afternoon I was drawn into 
sympathy with the afflicted of various classes. I was en- 
gaged in communication, beginning with the words of our 
Lord, ' Blessed are they that mourn, for they shall be com- 
forted.' 

26th. Second-day. My brother James and his wife hav- 
ing heard this day of the death of their daughter Eliza, aged 
a few months, at the house of her uncle, Samuel Boyce, in 



1844.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



427 



Lynn, Massachusetts, my wife and I went to visit them in 
the evening. A religious opportunity occurred, in which I 
w T as concerned to address them on the afflicting occasion. 

Third month 1 st. Sixth-day. Set out on my visit to the 
meetings of Salem Quarter, accompanied by my kinsman 
James E. Greeves. Lodged at George Mickle's, near Wood- 
bury. Previous to leaving the family, the next morning, 
(2nd,) a religious opportunity took place, in which I was 
concerned to address the heads of the family and the chil- 
dren. Dear Mary Mickle expressed a few words at the 
close. Went to Greenwich, and lodged at cousin Moses 
Sheppard's. 

3rd. First-day. At Greenwich Meeting I was helped to 
relieve my mind towards various states ; close things were 
said to some, and consolation offered to others. Dined with 
my aged friend, John Sheppard. He and his daughter Mary, 
accompanied us to his son Clarkson's to tea. An opportunity 
of religious retirement took place in the evening, and I had 
to address an individual present from the words of Christ to 
Nathanael, 'Before that Philip called thee, when thou wast 
under the fig tree, I saw thee.' Mary Sheppard had a short 
communication. 

6th. Fourth-day. After a sitting in the family where we 
lodged, in which ability was granted to address the heads of 
it, we went to Salem Meeting. Here I was again enabled to 
preach the Gospel of Christ, and to divide the Word to vari- 
ous states ; leaving the meeting-house in peace. Went to the 
house of Hope, the widow^ of Paul Scull, w 7 ho has lately de- 
parted this life. 

7th. Fifth-day. Again this morning, the widow, her 
only son, her married daughter and son-in-law, being to- 
gether, I had to address the three last in Gospel love. Went 



428 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1844. 



to Pilesgrove Meeting, and had cause to acknowledge the re- 
newed extension of Divine regard in qualifying to plead with 
the people. Returned to the widow's to dine. When about 
leaving the house, the covering of silence overspread us, un- 
der which my mouth was opened in prayer for the various 
members of the family, that the afflictive dispensation of late 
meted out, might be blessed to them. Went to my beloved 
aged friend, Joseph Whitall's, to lodge. 

8th. Sixth-day. At Woodbury Meeting. I had an open 
time in communication, commencing with the language of 
the Most High by the Psalmist, ' Gather my saints together 
unto me, those that have made a covenant with me by sacri- 
fice.' In the afternoon returned home in a state of peaceful 
poverty." 

In reference to this visit, he writes to his daughter Rebecca : 
" On the whole, I feel glad I have been out, and that this 
debt of Gospel love has been paid." 

Diary. " Third month 10th. First-day. Our morning 
meeting seemed favored. It was mostly held in silence, yet 
towards the close, I was engaged in the solemn service of 
supplication. The afternoon meeting seemed to me a low 
time. S. Biddle appeared in the evening, and Elizabeth 
Evans was engaged in prayer. 

13th. Fourth-day. Feeling a draft thereto, I attended 
the meeting for the Southern District. The prophet Ezekiel's 
vision of the holy waters being before me, something was 
spoken relative thereto, and also on other subjects which pre- 
sented. I felt calm and peaceful after the meeting, which I 
esteem a renewed instance of merciful regard from Him 
whom, however unworthy I am, I desire to serve in the Gos- 
pel of his Son. 

14th. Fifth-day. Openings attended at our week-day 



1844.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



429 



meeting concerning John's baptism and that of Christ; they 
were both spoken to ; and those addressed who are now under 
the administration of the latter, feeling it operating upon 
their pride, impurity, earthly affections, and whatever in 
them the Lord's controversy is against. These were coun- 
selled patiently to endure until the Heavenly Refiner has 
done his office, and the soul is prepared rightly to rejoice. 
The same day a friend whom I much love, spoke to me in- 
cautiously in commendation of my service, which introduced 
me into exercise and fear : ' Lord preserve me in self-abased- 
ness before thee ; and grant that all I do may be with a sin- 
gle eye to thy glory.' 

17th. First-day. In the morning I attended the North 
Meeting from a secret impulse, and was silent therein. In 
the afternoon, at our own meeting, labored a little to encour- 
age the ' prisoners of hope/ In the evening I had a testi- 
mony to bear to the nature of spiritual worship ; after which 
Hannah Gibbons and Samuel Cope were engaged in Gospel 
communications. I believe the meeting closed too soon. 

20th. Fourth-day. The remains of Deborah Hutton, 
daughter of Richard and Ann Wetherall, were interred yes- 
terday in the burying-ground belonging to Friends of Chester 
Meeting (Pennsylvania). Way did not open for my atten- 
dance ; but to-day I went to that meeting, and there met 
with the husband, parents, and other relations of the deceased ; 
and we were favored with a solemn season, in which ability 
was furnished to preach the Gospel of life and salvation, and 
to comfort the mourners. 

21st, Fifth- day. Unexpectedly it seemed to be my duty 
to sit with Friends of Newtown Meeting ; accordingly I went 
thither. It proved a low time, yet some capacity seemed 
furnished to set forth the necessity of our experiencing re- 



430 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1844. 



generation, and also that there is a ' needs be' for the afflic- 
tions which our merciful Father permits to befall us. 

Fourth month 1st. Second-day. I went to the funeral of 
Rest, the wife of my brother-in-law, Benjamin Cope. During 
the opportunity before the removal of the corpse, it appeared 
to be my place to bend the knee in vocal supplication. At 
the grave Sarah Emlen addressed an individual present in a 
very close manner, yet under the influence of Gospel love. 

4th. Fifth-day. At Westtown. In the morning meet- 
ing Sarah Emlen commenced the vocal service, followed by 
William Scattergood and William Evans, after which I had 
a communication from the Scripture passage, £ He that being 
often reproved hardeneth his neck, shall suddenly be de- 
stroyed, and that without remedy.' Some who had often 
been reproved, both immediately and instrumentally, were 
reasoned with ; and others who had entered into covenant 
with the Lord, were encouraged. The examination closed in 
the evening. 

7th. First-day. I had a testimony to bear in the after- 
noon meeting, and in the evening [had] a private opportu- 
nity with a valuable young friend. 

8th. Second-day. Much oppressed with the prevalence 
of the earthly nature. Our Preparative Meeting of Ministers 
and Elders was to me a low time. 

9th. Third-day. Felt somewhat relieved of the deep de- 
pression I have labored under for several days, and my mind 
was turned to the North Meeting. After our friend, John 
Pease, had appeared in testimony, I had to speak of the ex- 
cellency of that living faith which is the substance of things 
hoped for, and the evidence of things not seen, by which the 
holy ancients obtained a good report. The subject was illus- 
trated by bringing into view the case of the prophet Elisha, 



1844.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



431 



when the King of Syria sent an army to apprehend him. 
The meeting seemed to be in a good degree favored. 

B. HOYLE TO T. K. 

Mount Pleasant, Fourth month 20th, 1844. 

Dear Friend : — Feeling under obligation for thy two last 
acceptable communications, and also, I trust, an inclination 
to salute thee under feelings of brotherly love, I cannot easily 
let the present opportunity of conveyance pass without drop- 
ping thee a few lines. I noticed in thy last an intimation 
not to remain in any present engagement,* to the hindrance 
of more important concerns. For this token of the kind re- 
membrance of my distant friend, I hope to feel gratitude to 
that Almighty Caretaker, w ? ho at times puts into the hearts 
of fellow-travellers to remember one another for good. I de- 
sire to. be continued in thy remembrance. I have had, if I 
may be permitted to unbosom my feelings, some descen dings 
into low places for several months past, yet not without an 
evidence now and then afforded, that I am under the pro- 
tecting care of the Shepherd of Israel. Believing that these 
dispensations are profitable, I dare not wish for it to be other- 
wise ordered, but am bound to acknowledge that, ' Good is 
the Lord, and w 7 orthy to be praised.' 'His will is our sancti- 
fication ;' and that work is completed in us as we are found 
doing it, or suffering it to be done in us. May the Lord 
enable us more fully to drink of the cup that He drank of, 
and to be baptized with the baptism that He was baptized 
with ; for hereby are we kept in our proper allotments. 

Your annual assembly is perhaps by this time over. Has 
the ministry been of that description which tends to bring 

* Superintendent of Mount Pleasant Boarding School. 



432 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1844. 



under the cross of Christ '? The accounts from your side lat- 
terly have been, so far as I have seen them, favorable, and 
heartily do I wish it may prove so. I am not without fears 
that there may be that among us, which may be likened to 
£ wine mixed with water.' Unless the Blessed Head of the 
Church interposes for his cause' sake and for his honor's sake, 
there may be those liberated by some of the Yearly Meetings, 
even to cross the sea, whom He has not sent. These cannot 
profit the people at all, but must add affliction to the true 
burden -bearers where they may travel. These remarks do 
not apply to any such cases that may have been before your 
Yearly Meeting ; but surely there is a want of true discern- 
ing in some directions. 

Fifth month 13th. Sixth-day. Our Yearly Meeting has 
been held, which was upon the whole a favored season ; the 
Meeting for Ministers and Elders particularly so. Our 
friend, Sarah Emlen, was set at liberty to visit the churches 
in Great Britain and Ireland. We had the company of 
John Pease, Isabel Casson, and Rachel Priestman, the latter 
of whom obtained a returning certificate. Yesterday in our 
Monthly Meeting I was drawn forth in vocal supplication, 
and had afterwards a short communication. Isabel Casson 
and Rachel Priestman appeared in testimony." 

During the spring of this year symptoms of a pulmonary 
affection appeared in Susanna Sharpless. 

Fifth month 5th, her sister Rebecca writing of her then 
condition, says : " Dear uncle [1ST. K.,] I cannot but feel sad 
when I call to mind the suffering, emaciated frame of a sister 
so tenderly beloved, and feel that ere long she may be taken 
from us. She is very sensible of her situation, and is, I be- 
lieve, desiring to be prepared either for life or death. She 



1844.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



433 



told me she had not asked to be restored, though she felt 
keenly the prospect of parting from her husband and children. 
May we all seek for resignation to the Divine will, and urn 
murmuringly drink of whatever cup He may see meet to 
hand us." 

On the 11th the doctor said she seemed better. There 
was more to hope but much to fear. The invalid that day, 
after a hard spell of coughing, (alluding to the idea of some 
that the fine summer weather would improve her health), 
said, " It wall take more than pure air to cure that cough." 

About the middle of the Fifth month, Thomas Kite visited 
his sick daughter, and attended Cain Quarterly Meeting. 
Fifth month 24th he writes to his daughter Rebecca: 

" I propose sending this letter by a young Friend of Ohio, 
and a member of Indiana Yearly Meetiug, who is about to 
become a scholar at West town. Her mother spoke to W. 
E. and me at Richmond last fall concerning her, and has 
since by letter commended her to our care. She seems amia- 
ble and intelligent, and I wish thee to pay some attention to 
her as a stranger. I should think her health would be bene- 
fitted by frequent walking. Above the desire I feel for her 
improvement in useful knowledge, the prevalent one is, that 
religious impressions may be deepened, and she favored to 
return to her friends a decided lover of the cross of our Lord 
Jesus Christ, which crucifies the world with every evil affec- 
tion. 

We feel anxiously solicitous respecting thy dear sister. 
When we consider what she has been, and is to us, and what 
she is to her dear husband and children, it is natural that we 
should feel. I have not, however, yet given up all hope that 
she may be restored to us for a season, but I wish to endeavor 
to stand resigned to the dispensations of our heavenly Father, 



434 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1844. 



fully believing the Judge of all the earth will do right, and 
that He can make up to bereaved ones every loss, sanctify 
every affliction, and prepare his children to join the innumer- 
able company, who had not only " come out of great tribula- 
tion/' but also "washed their robes and made them white in 
the blood of the Lamb." 

Our friend, Lydia Dean, seems gradually declining. I 
have been to see her several times since her confinement to 
her room. 

Thy mother and I have just returned from Sarah E. Ores- 
son's, whither we went to say farewell to Sarah Ernlen.* A 
time of religious retirement took place, in which some pre- 
cious feelings were experienced, and some expressions of 
sympathy with our dear friend, and also with her companion 
who remained at home. # 

T. K. TO HIS SOX THOMAS. 

Fifth month 27th. 1844. 
My Dear Sox : — Thy sister Rebecca's letter has, no doubt, 
apprised thee of our dear Susan's illness. It will be eight 
weeks to-morrow since she was taken sick. She was at the 
time, as well as her husband, under appointment to attend 
the Yearly Meeting, and we were anticipating the satisfaction 
of having them in the city, but it was otherwise ordered ; and 
we have had a time of great anxiety. The disease was at 
first a catarrh fever, afterwards it turned to bronchitis, at- 
tended with severe cough and other distressing symptoms. 
However desirous thy mother was of paying thee her long 
talked of visit, of course she could not positively decide on 
anything whilst thy sister remained in this critical state, and 

* About to embark to Europe on a religious visit. 



1844.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



435 



for that reason we have forborne writing until some change 
should take place. 

Thy uncle Nathan and thy mother returned from East 
Bradford last evening, and report the dear invalid better, so 
that the prospect now is, should she continue so, for thy mother 
to be at Pittsburg in time to take the steamer Majestic on 
Seventh-day the 29th of the Sixth month. But as Susan is 
still very w 7 eak, and a relapse may take place, I wish thee 
not to be too sanguine in expecting thy mother, and endeavor 
to bear it with fortitude shouldst thou meet with a disappoint- 
ment. 

TO THE SAME. 

Fifth month 29th. 
Cousin Rebecca Haverstick's funeral was largely attended, 
and was a solemn time. A testimony was delivered at the 
house, in which the confidence was expressed that she had 
known the washing of regeneration, and was safely landed 
in the realms of bliss. R. Collins appeared in prayer. At 
the grave Sarah Hillman had a testimony to bear, commenc- 
ing with, " They shall hunger no more, neither thirst any 
more ; neither shall the sun light on them, nor any heat, for 
the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed 
them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of water ; 
and God himself shall wipe away all tears from their eyes." 
It seemed to be her belief that our kinswoman had been ad- 
mitted to participate in the blessedness enjoyed by the re- 
deemed. 

It seems as if I could scarcely let any letter depart without 
the expression of the wish, that, with respect to thee, lies 
nearest to my heart, which is, that as thou art growing in 
years, thou mayest be growing in grace ; not on]y avoiding 



436 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1844. 



the very appearance of evil, but that, cheerfully taking up 
the cross of Christ, the dear Kedeemer, thou mayest be found 
following Him in the regeneration. In our dear cousin's 
case we see how uncertain is time ; may it be increasingly 
thy concern to be found ready when the call is issued, " Stew- 
ard, give an account of thy stewardship, for thou mayest be 
no longer steward." 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

Fifth month 31st, 1844. 

The accounts we receive of thy sister's state in various 
ways, seem rather more encouraging. I am aware, however, 
that she remains much indisposed. There is sympathy due 
to her and her valuable companion, as well as to other dear 
friends. I feel for thee, my dear daughter; between thy 
school duties and thy natural desire to be with thy sister, I 
suppose thou hast some struggles. However, by this time 
thou hast learned that many trying things have to be borne 
in our journey through life. I observed in one of thy letters 
a remark, to the effect, that thou hadst been enabled to attend 
with cheerfulness to thy classes. I am glad of it, and hope 
thou wilt continue, whilst Westtown remains to be thy pro- 
per place, to discharge thy engagements there with fidelity. 
Catharine W. Morris is quite unwell, also Rebecca Folwell ; 
the latter, it is thought, can hardly recover. Our aged 
friend, Gulielma Widdifield, is confined to the house with 
indisposition, and Jane Peirce was absent from Monthly 
Meeting yesterday, from the same cause. 

We have had an intimation that Joseph Edgerton will 
probably soon be here, having in view to attend some meet- 
ings within the limits of our Yearly Meeting, and also to be 



1844.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



437 



at that held for New England. The latter part of his pros- 
pect I should think would not be very pleasant to him. 

In the beginning of the Sixth month, Thomas Kite, whose 
heart was closely drawn towards his suffering daughter, paid 
her another visit. He found her not quite so well as she 
had previously been, the effect, it was thought, of damp and 
rainy weather. 

On the 10th, Rebecca Kite writing of her sister says : " The 
doctor thinks her disease has now assumed a decidedly con- 
sumptive form, and notwithstanding an increase of strength, 
he does not feel at all encouraged. I have watched her now 
week after week, and my mind but strengthens in the belief, 
that ere very long we will have to part with one whose uniform 
kindness and loveliness has closely entwined her round our 
hearts. On Seventh-day she said, alluding to the time when 
I should no longer have a sister, ' 1 could remember how 
much we had loved each other and had enjoyed being to- 
gether/ She had not indulged herself with thinking that 
we should recognize our friends in another world ; she thought 
that would be a matter of little moment if she could only be 
found worthy to obtain the lowest seat in the Heavenly 
Kingdom." 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

Sixth month 18th. 
• Thy mother and I are much obliged to thee for keeping 
us informed of the state of thy sister ; her situation, we are 
aware, is critical, and we cannot calculate on her being 
raised again to health, unless such should be His determina- 
tion to whom all things are possible. Great as w 7 ill be the 
trial to myself, and to others of my family, to part with this 



438 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1844. 



long-cherished and beloved member of our circle, it will no 
doubt be more keenly felt by her beloved partner. To him 
and the children the loss will be great. May our merciful 
Father in Heaven strengthen and comfort him, and care for 
them. 

Ever since I saw thee last, I have felt at times some solici- 
tude on account of thy health. I wish thou wouldst make 
an effort to regain thy former habits of walking, particularly 
in the morning, even if thou hast to omit some sewing and 
some writing to obtain the time to accomplish it, * * * 

Sixth month 21st. Susanna Sharpless was a little stronger, 
but had a suffering day. She said she did not think herself 
any better. The disease was a flattering one, and she thought 
the many changes were calculated to unsettle the mind. A 
Friend (J. E.) who at this time visited her, remarked after- 
ward her " bright and cheerful countenance" and " the gather- 
ing of solemnity" which was at times upon it. He thought 
we need not say of such as she was, " they would be blest, 
they were blest already." 

T. K. TO HIS SON THOMAS. 

Sixth month 25th. 
I received a letter from thee a few days ago, in which 
thou speaks of thy mother's proposed visit. She came home 
from Aaron's on First-day evening, and left thy sister in a 
declining way, so much so that she cannot feel easy to leave 
home, for fear she should be called away in her absence. 
Since I last wrote to thee Susanna's disease has assumed a 
more marked character of pulmonary consumption. No 
calculation can be made as to how long she may last. It 
is no doubt a great trial to thy mother to give up her pro- 
posed visit, and it will be so to thee to be disappointed. To 



1844.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



439 



you both and to us all, it will be a severe affliction to part 
Avith our loved and cherished one, whose amiable qualities, 
and faithful performance of her duties, as wife, mother, child 
and sister, have won our affection in no ordinary degree. It 
has seemed her great object to make those around her com- 
fortable ; and she appeared to be prepared for greater useful- 
ness in the Church. But we are poor judges of what is best. 
" Shall not the Judge of all the earth do right ?" was the 
question of faithful Abraham. No doubt He will ; and 
however we may feel, it is our duty to submit, and look to 
the Lord alone for consolation, who in his own time, if we 
murmur not, will comfort all that mourn. * * * 

With renewed desires for thy preservation in the fear of 
the Lord, in bearing thy daily cross, and in obedience to 
all the dictates of the Holy Spirit, I am thy affectionate 
father. 

A black boy, twelve years old, who died some time since, 
I think of consumption, said near his close, " God is my 
Creator, Christ is my Redeemer, the Holy Spirit is my 
Sanctifier, and Heaven is my home." 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

Seventh month 6th. 
* * * There are many circumstances in the present 
day of a serious aspect, and many exercises for the Christian 
traveller to pass through. The old, as well as the young, 
have their conflicts, and there is but one Power can sustain 
and preserve any of us. To a single attention to Him who 
is given as a Leader and Commander to his people, I would 
recommend my dear children with a wish to be their com- 
panion in this necessary concern. I am thy sympathizing 
and affectionate father. 



440 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1844. 



T. K. TO HIS SON THOMAS. 

Seventh month 15th. 
As I have heard of a private conveyance for a letter, I avail 
myself of it to give thee further inform at ion respecting thy 
sister Susanna. Her disease seems to be gradually making 
its progress, and although we sometimes hear that she seems 
more comfortable, yet on the whole she is weaker, and wear- 
ing away. Thy mother and I expect to go to Aaron's to- 
morrow/ to remain for some time. We have no fixed plan, 
but must be governed by circumstances. * * * No 
doubt thou hast heard greatly exaggerated reports of the 
late riots. The reality was truly sorrowful, not only from 
the loss of life, but from the disposition of resistance to the 
lawful authorities manifested. Many causes have contributed 
to bring about this state of things amongst a portion of our 
community. Religious and political animosity had a share, 
and injudicious publications, particularly in the penny papers, 
have kept up an almost constant irritation. Some of the 
editors have been called to account. Many companies of 
country volunteers are here on military duty, to their own 
inconvenience, and to the detriment of their farms and 
families. I am as fully convinced as ever of the* propriety 
of peace principles, and desire all our members may not only 
keep out of the spirit of war, but be preserved from that 
agitation of mind which results from unprofitable discussions 
of the aspect of affairs. Were we truly living under the 
government of the Prince of Peace, our example would be 
of importance wherever we might live, and our spirits would 
afford a practical illustration of the nature of his kingdom. 



1844.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



441 



SAME TO SAME. 

Seventh month 31st. 
Dear Susanna keeps very much indisposed. Thy mother 
and I spent about a week at Aaron's. She was in a state of 
much suffering. We left to attend our own Monthly Meet- 
ing, intending to return after the Quarterly Meeting. We 
hear she has been somewhat easier since our return, although 
there is no change that is likely to be permanent. The 
doctor gives no expectation of her recovery. Thy sister 
Rebecca has been frequently to see her, and through the 
kindness of the superintendent and her fellow teachers, she 
has been permitted to remain with the dear sufferer about 
two weeks. 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER SUSANNA. 

Eighth month 2nd, 1844. 
My Dear Daughter : — I have not written to thee lately, 
but it has not proceeded from any diminution of affection. 
On the contrary thou wast never more dear to me than now, 
when thou art under the discipline of affliction, which sooner 
or later in one form or another, all the Lord's children have 
to partake of. " Whom the Lord loveth He chasteneth, 
and scourgeth every son and daughter whom He receiveth." 
I believe thou art disposed to say, " It is the Lord, let Him 
do what seemeth Him good ;" and yet nature is weak ; and 
fears at times may arise whether thou wilt be able to endure 
protracted suffering with entire patience and resignation. 
Ah ! my dear child, our compassionate Father knoweth our 
frame, and will not mingle more bitter ingredients in the 
cup of sorrow, than He sees to be best. Meanwhile He con- 
descends to let his suffering children remember that his 
29 



442 MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1844. 

name is Love, and that mercy is his attribute, and that his 
promises are all yea and amen forever. His promises are of 
strength and support equal to the trials of our day, and of 
an everlasting day of rest and comfort when the afflictions 
of time have passed away. The language of my heart is, 
" The Lord hear thee in the day of trouble, the name of the 
God of Jacob defend thee; send thee help from his sanctuary, 
and strengthen thee out of Zion ;" giving thee to experience 
the faith of the Psalmist, " Blessed is he that considereth the 
poor, the Lord will deliver him in time of trouble. The 
Lord will strengthen him upon the bed of languishing ; thou 
wilt make all his bed in his sickness." Then trust in Him 
with all thy heart, and I believe He will be near, giving 
thee to see the greatness of his salvation, and that it is all of 
mere mercy ; " Not by works of righteousness which we have 
done, but of his mercy He saves us, by the washing of re- 
generation and the renewing of the Holy Ghost." * * * 

t. k. to his daughter rebecca. (Same date.) 

Having written to thy sister, I seem to have little at 
present to say to thee. I understand thou expects in a few 
days to return to thy duties at the school. I have left this 
subject to thy own feelings, but as thou hast come to this 
conclusion, it will not perhaps be improper to say, I am 
satisfied with it. When there, endeavor as much as possible 
to give thy mind to the service of each day, without un- 
profitable anticipations. I trust the time thou hast past with 
thy suffering sister has not been without its lessons of profit 
to thee ; and I feel an earnest desire that every trial may be 
blessed and sanctified to thee, producing greater degrees of 
humility, tenderness and love ; and that thy determination 



1844.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



443 



to devote thyself to the Lord and his cause, may be 
strengthened through the renewings of holy help. 

We sometimes notice what we deem to be inconsistencies 
in those whom we nevertheless believe to be on the Lord's 
side. It is seldom of advantage to the young to speak of 
these things to others. Let them take warning as regards 
themselves, and remember that none are safe unless the holy 
watch is maintained. 

On the 8th of Eighth month, Thomas Kite attended 
Abington Quarterly Meeting. Joseph Edgerton was first 
opened in Gospel power and authority, and having closed 
his communication, T. K. soon rose. He said although 
we did not believe it to be right to eulogize the dead, for 
their own sake, yet the apostle exhorted the believers to 
" Remember them that have the rule over you, who have 
spoken unto you the word of God; whose faith follow, 
considering the end of their conversation, Jesus Christ, 
the same yesterday, to-day and forever." He added we 
were both allowed and recommended to have the righteous 
in remembrance, and he had been afresh reminded of a dear 
departed sister of that Quarterly Meeting who had lately 
been removed from among them by death, whose life, con- 
versation, and labors, many of the present company had 
witnessed, and whose faith had b&en of that kind which 
was worthy of being followed. He stated his belief that 
there were some present for whom this dear friend had been 
exercised, that they might be turned from the error of their 
ways, but who had not yielded to the reproofs of instruction. 
To these she, as it was said of righteous Abel, " being dead 
yet speaketh."* 

* Alice Knight who had deceased. 



444 MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1844. 

During the Eighth month, Thomas Kite spent some time 
with his declining daughter. On the 26th after his return 
he thus concludes a letter to his daughter K. : " With affec- 
tionate desires for thy preservation in the path of rectitude, 
in humility, watchfulness, and filial fear of offending thy 
Heavenly Father, either in thought, word or deed, I remain 
thy anxiously concerned parent." 

SAME TO SAME. 

Eighth month 30th. 
At our Monthly Meeting yesterday we had the company 
of Hannah Warrington, who has been visiting some of the 
meetings of our Quarterly Meeting with a minute. She 
had a good communication to deliver on the parable of the 
talents, and on that of the wise and foolish virgins, calcu- 
lated to promote self-examination as to whether ^e were 
rightly using the gifts and talents dispensed to us, and were 
thus preparing to have oil in our vessels, with our lamps, at 
the period when the solemn sound should be heard, " Behold 
the Bridegroom cometh," &c. Thy mother thought she 
had acceptable service in the last meeting. William Evans 
w r as also at the first meeting, and had a powerful testimony, 
setting forth the nature and ground of true unity, beginning 
with the Psalmist's declaration, ' How good and how 
pleasant a thing it is for brethren to dwell together in 
unity,' with more of the passage. Our men's meeting was 
comfortable, much unity of feeling prevailing in relation to 
the business which came before us, of which w 7 e had a con- 
siderable amount, so that we did not get released until near 
two o'clock. 



1844.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



445 



T. K. TO ANN ELIZA YARNALL. 

Eighth month 31st. 
Dear Cousin. My daughter Susan mentioned to me that 
she thought the volume of " Memorials/ 7 recently prepared, 
would be acceptable to thee. I therefore present thee with 
a copy, which accompanies this letter. When we read of 
the self-denying lives and happy deaths of the servants of 
Christ, it has an animating and encouraging effect, and 
under the Divine blessing, sometimes renews in our hearts, 
fervent desires to follow them as they followed Christ. I feel 
a wish that this may be the case with thee in seriously pe- 
rusing this little work, in which is contained excellent 
testimonies to the power and efficacy of the Grace of our 
Lord Jesus Christ. I have no doubt thou hast for years felt 
the stirrings of the Holy Spirit, and I believe thou art sensible 
the Lord is calling thee to walk in the narrow way which 
leads to life ; let nothing discourage thee, my dear cousin, 
from surrendering thyself without reserve, to be what the 
Lord would have thee to be. Sometimes when young per- 
sons seriously disposed, see those who make profession of 
being religious, acting inconsistently with such a profession, 
it has a tendency to produce reasonings of an unfavorable 
character, and the enemy takes advantage of the miscar- 
riages of others to stumble those and turn their feet out of 
the way. But we are to leave others to the Lord (unless 
when it is our duty in meekness to plead with them), and to 
let their faults prove warnings to us. The call of the Lord 
to his visited children is, to come out of all that defiles, all 
that stands opposed to purity and holiness, and on the terms 
of obedience to his call, He will make them his adopted 
children ; " Come out from among them and be ye separate ; 



446 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1844. 



touch not the unclean thing, and I will receive you, and 
will be a Father unto you ; and ye shall be my sons and 
daughters, saith the Lord Almighty." I am thy affectionate 
and sympathizing friend and cousin, Thomas Kite. ! 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER R. 

Ninth month 2nd. 
There is no situation or station exempt from trial and 
temptation. Hence the necessity of individually attending 
to our Lord's command ; " What I say unto you I say unto 
all, Watch." As we are rightly careful in this respect, we 
shall see our weakness and various deficiencies, the sense 
whereof should lead to secret prayer for deliverance from 
evil, and that having put our hands to the plough, we may not 
look back, and grow more indifferent about the things which 
accompany salvation, than we were in former years. If 
thus watching unto prayer, we shall experience an increasing 
fervency of spirit. But we may take up no rest short of 
the true rest, nor ever be contented short of the living- 
experience which Paul so forcibly describes as his own ; " I 
am crucified with Christ, nevertheless I live ; yet not I but 
Christ liveth in me ; and the life which I now live in the 
flesh, I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, 
and gave himself for me." May this be increasingly the 
case with my beloved daughter, that thus amidst the trials 
and afflictions of the present life, she may be preparing for 
another state of being, where the ransomed and redeemed 
of our God, " shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more; 
neither shall the sun light on them nor any heat, but the 
Lamb which is in the midst of the Throne shall feed them, 
and lead them to living fountains of water, and God shall 
wipe away all tears from their eyes ; and there shall be no 



1844.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



447 



more death, neither sorrow nor crying, neither shall there 
be any more pain ; for the former things are passed away." 

T. K. TO HIS SON THOMAS. 

Ninth month 5th. 

By thy mother's letter I suppose thou hast information 
of thy sister's continued indisposition, and that there remains 
no probability of her recovery. * * * There seems no 
doubt with us that her end will be peace. 

I often feel solicitous for the younger members of your 
Monthly Meeting, that there may be a greater consistency 
amongst them with our profession. It is hard to the strong- 
will of man to be subject to the cross ; but unless this be 
faithfully borne it is vain to expect firm and upright sup- 
porters of our testimonies. May good Joshua's resolution 
be thine, " As for me, I will serve the Lord." Let every- 
thing else give way to the resolution to live for the cause of 
Truth. Study to be quiet, and do thy own business; the 
first and most important part is to work out thy soul's 
salvation with fear and trembling. Then wilt thou be 
prepared rightly to discharge every relative duty, and to 
fulfil such services in the church as may be consistent with 
thy age and experience, ever remembering that godliness is 
profitable unto all things, having the promise of the life 
that now is, and of that which is to come. I have no doubt 
Truth would lead to a stricter administration of the dis- 
cipline than is common in some parts. But the men to 
enforce this must be clean handed. 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER R. 

Ninth month 6th. 
[After a little general information he concludes a short 



448 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1844. 



note thus:] I cannot think of anything more, necessary to 
tell thee at present. So with desires for thy stability, 
watchfulness and increasing dedication to the cross, even 
until thy own will shall be crucified and slain, I remain 
thy affectionate father. 

Ninth month 9th, T. K. attended Haddonfield Monthly 
Meeting. On the 10th, writing to his daughter Rebecca, 
he says : 

" We hear more unpleasant tidings from New England. 
There have been some operations commenced in another 
Monthly Meeting of Rhode Island Quarterly Meeting, which, 
if we are rightly informed, are of an arbitrary character. 
The prospect of what the issue may be seems gloomy and 
discouraging. Yet everything of this kind, or any trials 
nearer home, should incite us to individual faithfulness; for 
whatever may be permitted to befall any/of the children of 
men, the sentence of the wise man will stand good, ' Surely I 
know that it shall be well with them that fear God ; that fear 
before Him.' " 

SARAH EMLEN TO T. K. 

Belfast, Ninth month 15th, 1844. 

My beloved friend, Thomas Kite, has very many times 
been the companion of my mind since being in this land ; 
and I should have been glad to have known of this opportu- 
nity earlier, that I might have written thee to say, how glad 
I was of, and how much good thy kind and welcome letter 
did me, which was handed me after we had been out at sea 
a week. Indeed, it caused tears of gratitude to flow, that I 
had been so kindly remembered. 

'Tis now after ten o'clock, and after the labor of attending, 



1844.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



449 



two large meetings in this place, (which, I think I may say 
were overspread as with Emanuel's wing), feeling spent, and 
as if my little store w T as nearly exhausted, I am too poor to 
have anything worth thy notice. But thou art my interested 
friend, and will understand me, when I say, that I have been 
many times a wonder to myself, so marvellously has the Lord 
made my way where there seemed to be no way ; so that my 
% heart hath often been attuned, both secretly and openly, 
with liviug praises. May all the praise and all the honor 
ever be ascribed to the " Lion of the tribe of Judah." Please 
give my dear love to thy E., sister Mary, Rebecca, William 
and wife, &c. Ah ! dear Aaron ! how often have I thought 
of him. How is it ? Is dear Susan with you yet ? or has she 
taken her flight to join the saints above ? How incompre- 
hensible are the ways of Providence ! 

A letter addressed to the care of Isaac Had win, of Liver- 
pool, would find thy friend, Sarah Emlen. 

T. K. TO HIS SON THOMAS. 

Ninth month 16th. 

We are about in usual health, excepting thy sister Susanna, 
who gradually declines. Her limbs now swell towards night, 
but the swelling abates by morning. Water also appears to 
accumulate on her chest. She seems to be supported under 
her sufferings, and her reliance is evidently on her Creator 
and Redeemer. It is quite uncertain how long she may yet 
have to struggle with her afflictions. * * * 

On the 16th, Susanna Sharpless became alarmingly op- 
pressed, and in the belief that her end could not be very dis- 
tant, asked for her husband and then for her children. When 
they came, she affectionately bade them farew T ell, and ad- 
dressed some sweet, parting counsel to two of the children. 



450 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1844; 



She expressed that she felt peace. After a time she alluded 
to her sister, then attending to her duties at Westtown. Un- 
derstanding that she desired to see her before the close, a 
messenger was sent after her. During this day (2nd), it 
seemed as if the struggle would suddenly end, and death 
must come, she suffered such intense agony. Towards night, 
however, she revived, and was easier. Observing this, she 
remarked, " What a disappointment." That evening she 
said, " I am ready to query : why are his chariot wheels so 
long in coming?" On Third-day, the 17th, she lay gasping 
for breath, and though apparently in the perfect possession 
of her senses, spoke little ; yet, during the afternoon, she at 
one time exclaimed, " It is written ; suddenly, — in a moment, 
— in the twinkling of an eye, we shall be changed ! Oh ! 
that the change would come to me !" She was very anxious 
to be gone, but, as her aunt P. wrote, " is a pattern of quiet 
submission." 4 

During Fourth-day night the period came for her release. 
A letter announcing the event to her connections in Phila- 
delphia, (written on Fifth-day), says : " Since Second-day 
morning she was almost in a constant struggle for breath. 
Several times they thought her going. Last night, waking- 
out of sleep, she seemed very feeble, and sat up in bed for a 
time. They noticed a rattling in her throat, and cousin 
Aaron was called. In a few minutes she passed away, very 
calmly and quietly." 

The following account was penned by one present at the 
close and funeral : 

" It was my privilege to witness the closing scene, and it 
was the first time I had ever been present on such an occa- 
sion. Half propped up in bed, she gently drew her breath 
at short intervals, until all ceased. A solemn silence pre- 



1844.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



451 



vailed over the room, which was ere long broken by the voice 
of supplication, returning thanks to God that He had taken 
unto himself our beloved friend and relative. 

Surely there is cause for thankfulness and rejoicing, and 
however deeply we may feel our loss, when, as in this case, 
we have reason to believe that those who have been removed 
from us had through mercy experienced their natural affec- 
tions and propensities regulated by the standard of the cross, 
their sins forgiven, and an entrance administered unto them 
into the celestial city. 

Her funeral, which took place on Sixth-day, the 20th of 
the month, was attended by many of those who had been at- 
tached to her during life, by the ties of affection and relation- 
ship. Her father spoke [in the ministry], and appeared in 
supplication in the room where the family were collected to- 
gether ; and the tender feeling which prevailed Avas very 
precious. At the grave also his mouth w r as opened to express 
his own resignation, and his sense of her worth, and to bear 
testimony, that by the grace of God, she was what she was. 

The sentences which follow, are believed to be nearly as 
they were uttered : 

" ' There is now no condemnation to them which are in 
Christ Jesus, w 7 ho walk not after the flesh, but after the 
Spirit ; for the law of the spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath 
made me free from the law of sin and death.' 

' Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from henceforth ; 
yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors ; 
and their works do follow them/ Some experience their 
sins to go beforehand to judgment, and some they follow 7 
after. What a blessed thing to know, a going beforehand to 
judgment ! That this was the experience of this, my first- 
born and precious child, I am thankfully made to believe. 



452 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1844. 



By one stroke how many tender ties have been severed. 
An obedient child, — a loving and faithful wife, — a tender 
and watchful mother, — has been removed. 

By the grace of God she was what she was ; and it may be 
for the encouragement of some present, that my voice is heard 
this day. May you be enabled to give up all and follow 
Christ. I am enabled to say, ' The Lord gave and the Lord 
hath taken away ; blessed be the name of the Lord !' " 

The following notice appeared in " The Friend:" 

" Died, Ninth month 19th, at the residence of her husband, 
in East Bradford, Chester County, Pennsylvania, in the 36th 
year of her age, Susanna, wife of Aaron Sharpless ; a mem- 
ber of Birmingham Monthly Meeting. During her last ill- 
ness, which was of many months' duration, she was enabled 
to bear her acute sufferings with patience and resignation to 
her heavenly Father's will. Having from an early period of 
her sickness been persuaded that it would terminate in death, 
she was quietly yet earnestly engaged that her concerns, out- 
wardly and inwardly, might be found in order. She ap- 
peared as a servant watching for her Lord, not knowing the 
moment of his coming, but yet rejoicing in the belief that He 
would not tarry, but through redeeming love and mercy 
would gather her into his mansions of rest." 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

Ninth month 27th. 
A notice of dear Susan's death is in " The Friend." It 
seems to me to be cautiously written, and I hope will not 
give uneasiness. Much more might have been said with 
truth, but this will give a hint to her distant friends of the 
composed and resigned state of her mind. It was written by 
thy uncle N. When anything is said, either in brief notices 



1844.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



453 



or longer memorials, of the pious life, or happy death .of a 
Christian, the object ought to be to magnify Divine Grace, 
and to afford encouragement to survivors to submit to the 
Power which can alone prepare for an admittance into the 
realms of bliss. 

On a calm review of all the circumstances attending thy 
sister's last illness, notwithstanding we must keenly feel her 
loss, I think we have great cause of thankfulness. No doubt 
she suffered greatly ; but her pains and sorrows were sancti- 
fied, and the everlasting Arm was underneath ; and they 
may have been permitted in part, to make those who were 
united to her by the tenderest ties, more willingly resign her 
to Divine disposal, fully believing, as they did, that her re- 
lease from the pains of an afflicted tabernacle, would be suc- 
ceeded by an entrance into never-ending happiness. Her 
memory will be precious to us ; for her agreeable natural 
qualities being refined and sanctified by religion, made her 
truly lovely. She seemed, according to her measure and op- 
portunities, to be living up to the exhortation of the apostle, 
" To do good and to communicate forget not, for with such 
sacrifices God is well pleased. " But I must check myself. 
By the grace of our Holy Redeemer, she was what she was, 
and the praise is due to Him who loved her, and washed her 
from her sins in his own blood, and prepared her for a man- 
sion of glory in his Father's house. May we follow in the 
way cast up for the ransomed of the Lord to walk in ; and 
being strengthened to fight the good fight, and to keep the 
faith, may we be permitted in the Lord's time to follow her 
to the regions of light and everlasting joy. 



454 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1844. 



T. K. TO HIS SON THOMAS. 

Ninth month 29th. 
Thy brother William wrote announcing the death of thy 
sister. Thy mother and I were not with her at the time, not 
supposing it would take place so soon, and I having very 
particular engagements in the city about the time it occurred. 
We had both been considerably with her. From an early 
part of her sickness she believed she should not recover. The 
thought of parting with her husband and children was trying 
to nature, especially the former, considering that his own 
nearest kindred had been removed. She felt much sympathy 
for him. But she was soon favored with resignation to her 
heavenly Father's will ; and not only was earnestly engaged 
that the work of her soul's salvation might be fully accom- 
plished, but was concerned that her outward affairs should 
be satisfactorily arranged, being carried into different apart- 
ments, examining her clothing and that of her family, put- 
ting things in order, and giving directions concerning some 
articles she wished presented to individuals of her acquain- 
tance when she was gone as memorials of her affection. She 
even gave directions respecting the manner in which she 
wished the funeral to be conducted. A short account for 
family use will probably be drawn up, mentioning some 
things, which she expressed at various times, i just hint for 
the present at a few of them, as I have received them from 
thy aunt Mary, who continued with her to the last. One 
evening she remarked, 'What a poor creature I am; not 
worth all the trouble I occasion.' She then said she had been 
comforted with the communication of dear Joseph Edgerton, 
in her chamber a few days before ; and how truly she felt 
herself ' a poor creature/ as he expressed it. But she could 



1844.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



455 



say she loved the Truth, and desired to do nothing against 
it, adding, ' How consoling the language, that ' he believed 
the angel of the Lord's presence would attend, and convey 
me safely through the dark valley.' She several times quoted 
the language of Job, ' All the days of my appointed time will 
I wait until my change come.' At one time she remarked 
nearly in this wise, ' I often have sweet, comfortable times in 
the night. When I awakened last night, I had such a feel- 
ing as I never before experienced, how full and sufficient the 
sacrifice of our Saviour was for us.' Her sufferings were very 
great throughout most of her illness, which had a tendency 
to make her family more willing to part with her, that she 
might be released from so much pain. She received a letter, 
I believe, from her cousin, Anne S., which expressed sympa- 
thy with her, and offered encouragement. On hearing it, she 
said, 'I hope it is so, that He is near to me ; though at times 
He hides his face, and I feel very much alone ; yet sometimes 
in the midst of severe suffering, I feel that He is love.' She 
afterwards observed, * I have not as clear an evidence as I 
desire of acceptance, but I am favored at times with his pre- 
sence ; and many times in the day my thoughts are turned 
towards my heavenly Father.' She also alluded in a feeling 
manner to the gradual weaning from all earthly things her 
mind had experienced. The same day she said to William, 
' Dear brother, my days seem numbered, and my life draw- 
ing to a close.' She was gradually and sweetly prepared for 
the solemn change. On Fifth-day morning, about ten min- 
utes before four o'clock, a gentle and peaceful dismission was 
granted her. Of her last expressions, only the words, " Lord 
Jesus," could be distinguished. A solemn feeling covered 
the minds of those present at the time of her release. At the 
time of her interment, we had a favored season, the evidence 



456 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1844. 



being granted that her immortal part was safely landed in 
the realms of everlasting bliss. On the whole, although 
sensible of the great loss we have sustained, there is much 
cause for thankfulness, and to adopt the sentiment of Job, 
" The Lord gave, the Lord hath taken away ; blessed be the 
name of the Lord !" 

May we be concerned, my dear son, to give all diligence 
to make our calling and election sure, that so we may have 
the assurance that our names are written in the Lamb's book 
of life. The fashion of this world passeth away ; eternal 
things are those which should engage our most serious atten- 
tion. If the soul is lost, all that is worth living for is lost ; 
if immortal life is but gained, it matters little, comparatively, 
what else is lost. 

To a friend of the family, residing at a distance, who on 
hearing of the illness of Susanna Sharpless, had written a 
sympathizing letter to the family, Thomas Kite thus replied : 

" Tenth month 18th. Thou wast truly informed as to the 
situation of our beloved daughter. Her three children had 
the scarlet fever last winter, and Aaron was also unwell. The 
care and fatigue of nursing had an unfavorable effect on her 
health. In the Third month a catarrh fever commenced, in- 
flammation of the mucous membrane followed, and finally, 
consumption. Her life closed on the 19th of last month. She 
was early satisfied what the result would be, and with great 
composure, prepared for the event, arranging her domestic 
affairs with admirable presence of mind, and superintending 
her household long after her debility was so great as to pre- 
vent her walking. She was no less earnestly engaged with 
respect to her soul's welfare ; and He whom she had long 
loved, and desired to serve, her gracious Lord and Saviour, 



1844.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



457 



condescended to give her a comfortable and sustaining hope, 
that in the end all would be well. She appeared to feel 
much more for her husband than for herself ; her children, 
also, had large claims on her sympathy. She imparted her 
dying counsel to the two eldest in simple language ; gave ad- 
vice to other members of her family ; had many seasons- of 
sweet intercourse with Christian friends ; often was drawn 
forth in prayer and praise, and after enduring severe bodily 
affliction, under which she was mercifully sustained, she was 
at length released, leaving us the consoling evidence, that 
her robes having been washed and made white in the blood 
of the Lamb, her ransomed and redeemed spirit has been per- 
mitted to join the multitude which no man can number, who 
stand before the throne with palms in their hands. We feel 
sensibly her loss, but endeavor to be resigned ; and Aaron is 
strengthened to support this afflictive bereavement with pro- 
per submission to his heavenly Father's will. Sister Mary 
w T ent soon after Yearly Meeting, and continued with Susan 
to the close. We expect her home next week." 

During the time that Rebecca Kite was in Philadelphia 
during the Westtown vacation this month, a circumstance 
occurred which she thus narrates : " The last Fourth-day 
evening I was at home, all our uncles, aunts and cousins, who 
could come, were collected at our house, and some account of 
dear sister 'was read. After the reading, father spoke very 
sweetly from the text, 6 Behold how good and how pleasant 
it is for brethren to dwell together in unity.' He alluded 
to the love which united us as a family, and then very feel- 
ingly to our recent bereavement, saying, ' My dear friends, I 
have every proof which my heart could desire, that the 
change was a happy one to the dear deceased.'" 

In the same letter addressed to her brother Thomas, she 
30 



458 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1844. 



says : " Hast thou ever looked back over those who have 
been taken from us, and felt thankful in believing that so 
many of them were prepared for the final change. Our 
eminently gifted grandmother [Edith Sharpless] w r e never 
knew, and our worthy grandfather [Joshua Sharpless] had so 
far passed his prime, that we could not appreciate the vigor 
of his early days, when he stood a valiant soldier in the fore- 
most ranks of the Church militant. We can remember, 
however, the sweet spirit of his second partner, whom we 
dearly loved. Our uncle Isaac [Sharpless] also was a de- 
voted Christian. We can remember the noble and generous 
spirit of our paternal grandfather [B. Kite] and his strong- 
love for the cause of Truth, even though the decay of nature 
had somewhat impaired his intellectual powers. In heavenly 
things there was no decay ; he was green in old age, and 
with his loins girded was found waiting when his Master 
sent the gentle summons to ' enter into the joy of his Lord.' 
His tenderly beloved partner did not long survive him. 
Through the course of a long life she had sought to promote 
the comfort of others — was a frequent visitor in the abodes 
of sickness and poverty ; has faithfully performed the duties 
of a wife and mother ; had the comfort of seeing her sons 
and daughters useful in the Church ; saw even the third 
generation springing up around her, when she too, having 
followed and faithfully eyed the ' bright star' which she 
spoke of near her close, found it to lead her to a happy home. 
Very near her end, she dreamed her husband, arrayed in 
white, had come to take her to the mansion prepared for her. 
Though her dying agonies were hard to witness, the end was 
peace. Our cousins whom we loved as sisters [Abby Greeves] 
and [Edith Sharpless], our dear brother, and now our most 
tenderly loved and cherished sister, have one by one been 



1844.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



459 



summoned by the messenger on the pale horse, and we trust 
have all been ready." 

Tenth mouth. In a letter from Rebecca Kite to her 
brother Thomas, is some further information relative to 
Thomas Kite's movements this week. Of the Fifth-day, at 
Westtown, she says : "Our dear father was at meeting, and 
spoke very interestingly. * * Information having been 
received of the death of our uncle, Isaac Hayes, father went 
[to Fallowfield] on Seventh-day afternoon. The next morn- 
ing, before light, brother Aaron, aunt Mary, cousin Joseph 
and myself, were on our way to the same place. We saw the 
placid remains of our venerable uncle, and learned that his 
end was peace and joy. Father's voice was heard both in the 
dwelling house and in the meeting." 

T. K. TO HIS SON THOMAS. 

Tenth month 29th. 
I do not wish to fill my letters with repetitions of religious 
counsels, the same in substance as I have often given, yet I 
know not how peacefully to lay aside my pen without ad- 
verting to the most important of all subjects. It may suffice 
for the present to say, that my feelings towards thee are set 
forth in the language wherewith Aaron and his sons were 
commanded to bless the children of Israel : " The Lord bless 
thee and keep thee ; the Lord make his face to shine upon 
thee and be gracious unto thee ; the Lord lift up his counte- 
nance upon thee and give thee peace." 

T. K. TO THE SAME. 

Eleventh month 6th. 
I have been sorry to see so much excitement about the 
presidential election and * * * hope that men's minds 



460 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1844. 



will soon settle down, and be at liberty to attend more closely 
to those concerns which are not bounded by time, but reach 
forward into eternity, even the concerns of the immortal soul. 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

Eleventh month 22nd. 

I had occasion to call last evening at William Evan's, and 
there found Elizabeth Pitfield, Elizabeth Pearson, Joseph 
Snowdon, Charles Williams and others. The covering of 
silent solemnity was spread over us, and Elizabeth Pitfield 
addressed William on the subject of his prospect of religious 
service,* offering sympathetic encouragement. After her, 
Elizabeth Evans offered comfort to those assembled in a 
general way ; then William followed, and alluding to the 
difficulties in the Society, had counsel to impart to the elder 
portion of the company present. The last-named Friend 
and his conpanion, Joseph Elkinton, expect to leave home 
on their northern tour on Second-day. I am reminded that 
Joseph and his wife took tea at my house on First-day even- 
ing last, also Henrietta Woodward, James R. Greeves and 
E. G. Taber. * ' * * 

An affecting circumstance took place early in this week. 
John Bacon, son of John, (of Bacon's neck,) near Greenwich, 
N". J., was going on a visit to a relation at Plymouth ; as he was 
passing near a limestone quarry, on his way from the railroad 
depot to his destination, at the moment the workmen were 
blasting a rock, a fragment of it struck him on the head. 
He was much injured, has been insensible up to the last ac- 
count we have heard, and he is not expected to recover. It 
will be a great affliction to his parents and to the family. 

* Visit to Western New York and Canada. 



1844.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



461 



SARAH EMLEN TO THOMAS KITE. 

Exeter, Eng., Twelfth month 1st, 1844. 
My Beloved Friend : — Thy very acceptable letter 
reached me at Bristol, the 12th of last month, just four weeks 
from its date. While I sympathize with thee in the priva- 
tion of so valued and worthy a child, nevertheless, I do be- 
lieve, that on her account, we may rejoice. I can readily con- 
ceive the pangs it must have cost her natural affections to be 
severed from her nearest earthly ties. The struggle must 
have been great. But oh ! what a mercy to experience the 
work of redemption and sanctification to be accomplished, so 
that she could calmly and resignedly look on death, waiting 
" all the days of her appointed time," till He should come 
who rideth upon the wings of the wind, to bear her precious 
spirit through the dark valley to the mansions of eternal 
light and never-ending blessedness. Doubtless, she is now 
numbered with that innumerable company who stand before 
the throne of God and of the Lamb, where his servants shall 
serve Him and see his face ; and his name is upon their fore- 
heads. " There shall be no night there, and they need no 
candle, neither light of the sun ; for the Lord God giveth 
them light, and they shall reign forever and ever." I feel 
her loss, both in the Church and as a neighbor to my child, 
who felt her as a sister. When thou goest into the neighbor- 
hood, please give my dear love to Aaron, and tell him I often 
think of him ; and do try to spare a few moments for poor 
C. and M., and remember them for good. They, doubtless, 
have heard the voice of the blessed Shepherd, and oh ! that 
they could be persuaded to follow Him. Nothing in this 
life could so rejoice my heart, as to see my precious offspring 
meekly and sweetly bending to the yoke of Christ. I am 



462 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1844. 



sometimes ready to cry out : what more shall I do for my 
children than to bear them with my tears upon my heart be- 
fore the throne of Grace? They are naturally amiable and 
lovely ; but I long to see them newly-born babes in Christ, and 
not ashamed or afraid to confess Him before men. Thy ac- 
count of my dear James, and of the children waiting on their 
friends, with cheerfulness and alacrity, during committee 
time, was pleasant. * * * 

It is now more than five weeks since I was favored to ac- 
complish my mission through Ireland, and came over to 
Liverpool, with my little sheaf, but without daring to set it 
up, because I still felt the sentence of death. Whilst I 
w r as w T aiting to see what might, in the ordering of a kind 
Providence, turn up, in the way of a companion, Dugan and 
Asenath Clark, very unexpectedly and unthought of, came. 
I remembered Naomi and Ruth. Indeed, we all wept. 
While Asenath and I w r ere more weak, being privileged, 
Dugan turned his back to hide his tears. Ah, indeed, it is 
sweet, when we are strangers in a strange land, to meet with 
our dear countrymen and women. Now it seemed that help 
had been senl, and that it might be right for me to be banded 
w T ith them. After comparing our feelings and prospects, we 
thought it best to consult the Select members of Liverpool 
Meeting, about the propriety of such a move ; and they unit- 
ing with it, and giving us as much encouragement as we 
could ask, w 7 e set out on the railway, the 16th of Tenth month, 
for Colebrookdale, and reached the house of Bernard Dick- 
inson that evening, a distance of one hundred and twenty 
miles. We had an appointed meeting the next evening, 
which was large and very quiet, and favored, I thought, with 
a little of the precious ointment. We then set out for South 
Wales ; had a long journey over the " barren mountains and 



1844.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



463 



desolate hills," and saw plenty of heath. How justly, I 
thought, might those who put their trust in the arm of flesh, 
be compared to this dry heath, that knoweth not when good 
cometh. 

The mountains of Wales are quite a curiosity to the eye of 
an American. Not a tree nor a shrub to be seen ; all look 
as clean as though they had been mown with a scythe. A 
few cows here and there, and some sheep, were all that we 
saw grazing on them, for hundreds of acres. The road over 
the great hills was excellent. To us who had been accustomed 
to much more uneven ways, it was a subject of inquiry, why 
they hooked on another pair of horses ? We wondered at be- 
ing told, " to drag you up the hills," when we thought the 
road was so fine. We visited the few scattered ones of the 
tribes in that country, Pales and Hay, and so on to Neath, 
in Glamorganshire. From thence we had a long two days' 
journey to Mil ford, on the sea, where are but two or three 
members of our Society. We felt well rewarded for our 
journey, and thought a little Benjamin was there, — a seed of 
the living faith, that seemed crying for help. Our public 
meetings were large and favored, and the poor people, or 
the " common people," did appear to rejoice as the dry and 
thirsty ground rejoices at the sound of rain. Many of them 
could understand but very little English, and others that 
could, would ask, " Won't you come again ?" and " You must 
come again." When they were reminded that if they had 
received any good,* they must give the honor and praise to 
the great Head of the Church, and not to his poor servants, 
they with tears and sobs would exclaim, " Yes ! Yes ! Yes !" 
and it was really affecting and humbling to see them crowd- 
ing round our carriage. Dugan said, " Well, I never saw 
the like." 



464 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1844. 



CHAPTER XXII.— 1844-1845. 

LETTERS — THOMAS KITE'S LAST JOURNEY — DEBORAH WELSH 
— THOMAS KITE'S ILLNESS AND DEATH. 

T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

Twelfth month 3rd. 
Last Seventh-day my mind seemed to be turned towards 
Frankford, and accordingly I went thither in the evening 
stage. * * In the morning I rode to meeting, which was 
thought to be about as large as it commonly is, notwith- 
standing the rain. Within a few months I had been twice 
before at this meeting, and each time silent as to ministerial 
labor ; but now my way was open to communicate more 
largely than is common with me. * * I took tea at 
home and went to the evening meeting, where I heard the 
same passage of Scripture commented on that I had spoken 
of in the morning, viz., that wherein we are told that Paul 
before Felix reasoned concerning righteousness, temperance, 
and judgment to come. 

Thomas Kite attended Haddonfield Monthly Meeting, 
Chester Monthly and Haddonfield Quarterly Meetings, held 
on the 9th, 10th, 11th and 12th of the month. The Quar- 
terly Meeting was held at Moorestown. In the meeting for 
worship, on Fifth-day, he was favored in solemn supplication. 
In this little town he had an opportunity of visiting some of 
his relations, and many friends in the neighborhood of Had- 
donfield, Moorestown and Westfield, who little thought that 
this was the last time they should see their much loved 
brother in the faith and patience of Jesus Christ. 



/ 



1844.] MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



465 



T. K. TO HIS DAUGHTER REBECCA. 

Twelfth month 16th. 
We hear that thy young friend, Mary Moore, has termi- 
nated her course on earth ; we know not many particulars, 
but have been informed that she was married only about a 
month before her close. She had been long engaged, and it 
was thought desirable that the marriage should take effect, 
although at the time it was expected she could not long sur- 
vive. I think her husband was a student of medicine. * * 
Our friend, Mary Wistar, departed this life during last night. 
She was yesterday about as well as she had been of late, but 
seemed somewhat restless at going to bed. About one she 
was taken ill, and soon expired. * * Continue carefully 
to attend to the preservation of thy health, but, above all, of 
thy peace of mind. This last can only be experienced by 
watching unto prayer, and yielding obedience to the restrain- 
ing influence of Divine grace, as well as the clear presenta- 
tions of duty. 

At the evening meeting on First-day, Twelfth month 22nd, 
Thomas Kite was opened in the ministry with living authority, 
and in an impressive manner. His text was : " There w 7 as 
silence in heaven for the space of half an hour." In connec- 
tion with this, he quoted the passage, " The Lord is in his holy 
temple, let all the earth keep silence before Him." In the 
course of his communication, he said that " Although a living 
Gospel ministry was a great blessing to the Church, yet to 
know the Lord to be in his holy temple, and keeping silence 
before him, was worship." 

The religiously-guarded education of the children of 
Friends, had long been a subject of deep interest to the 
Yearly Meeting of Philadelphia. It had in 1845 appointed 



466 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1845. 



a Committee on Education, and of that committee Thomas 
Kite was an interested and working member. Being with 
several others appointed by the committee to visit Friends 
in Cain Quarterly Meeting, in order to stir them up to greater 
carefulness in the proper education and training of the chil- 
dren, he left home on Seventh-day, the 4th of First month, 
1845, to fulfil that duty. 

On First-day, the 5th, he was at the morning meeting at 
West Chester. On the Fourth-day of the previous week, S. 
C. had attended Birmingham Monthly Meeting, held in that 
borough, and had been opened on the text, " Quench not the 
Spirit, despise not prophesying. Prove all things ; hold fast 
that which is good. Abstain from all appearance of evil. 
And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly : and I pray 
God your whole spirit, and soul and body, be preserved 
blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Faith- 
ful is He that callethyou, who also will do it." After speak- 
ing in a very interesting manner on these beautiful exhorta- 
tions of the apostle, S. seemed rather abruptly to conclude. 
Thomas Kite's daughter, Rebecca, in writing to her father 
before the close of the week, mentioned this communication ; 
but when about to tell the text, she desisted from a sudden 
impression that it would not be best. On First-day, Thomas 
Kite was led largely to comment on the same passage, not ' 
knowing until afterwards, of the coincidence. His nephew, 
Joseph Walton, Jr., after the meeting, took him to Westtown, 
where, in the afternoon, he was again clothed with Gospel 
power to preach glad tidings to those assembled. He com- 
mented with great sweetness on the blessings pronounced by 
our Saviour when on the Mount, and closed his communica- 
tion with an earnest query to some present, whether their 
days' work was keeping pace with the day. 



1845.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



467 



That evening he suffered much from pain in the head, 
which he supposed was neuralgia, yet he was cheerful and 
pleasant in conversation. On Second-day morning the 6th, 
he went to his son-in-law, Aaron Sharpless's, who was to ac- 
company him to the meetings of Cain, being also a member 
of the committee. That afternoon they rode to the house of 
Isaac Phillips, at Sadsbury, where they met William Hodgson, 
Jr., under like appointment with them. At that hospitable 
house Thomas Kite felt at ease, and seemed to enjoy being 
there. In the evening, solemn silence covered the little com- 
pany, and he was again drawn forth in testimony, particu- 
larly addressing the daughter. That night was a stormy 
one, and snow fell to the depth of several inches. The next 
day (7th of the month), they were at Sadsbury Monthly 
Meeting, and in the Meeting for Worship he was engaged 
for some time in testimony. At the close of the meeting for 
business, the committee had an opportunity of unfolding to 
a number of the members of that meeting nominated to hear 
them, the nature of the concern of the Yearly Meeting and 
the best way of co-operating therewith, In this conference 
Thomas Kite manifested the warm interest he took in the 
subject. 

The committee dined with Joseph Cooper, and then came 
to the dwelling of William Forsythe, near Cain Meeting- 
house, where Bradford Monthly Meeting was to be held that 
day. The pain in Thomas Kite's face continued, and this 
evening seemed so about one of his teeth, as to induce him to 
attribute it to some defect in that organ. At Bradford 
Monthly Meeting, he was again largely engaged in a living, 
baptizing ministry. At the close of the meeting a conference 
was held with some of the members, similar to the one at 
Sadsbury, and suitable counsel and advice was given them. 



468 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1845. 



After dining with Davis Hoopes, the committee took Ann 
E., the wife of Jacob Edge, into their carriage and went into 
Downingtown to visit E. Valentine, her mother. The) 7 sat 
down with the pious mother and her daughters, and the 
current of Gospel love sweetly flowed amongst them. Thomas 
Kite was enabled with strength and authority to hold forth 
the language of encouragement to the ancient Friend to hold 
on her way, and an invitation as well as encouragement was 
extended to the daughters. It was a heart-tendering oppor- 
tunity, in which the little company were melted to tears, and 
proved to the visitor as well as the visited, a brook by the 
way. Lodging that night at W. Trimble's, in the morning 
he called to see William Harry and family, not far from 
Uwchlan Meeting-house. Fifth-day the 9th, they attended 
Uwchlan Monthly Meeting, where Thomas Kite was much 
enlarged, and spoke with more than usual force and authority. 
After the second meeting, and the administering advice on 
education, the committee went to the house of Mary Butler, 
where they dined. Immediately after this meal, they started 
for Robeson, having a son of their late kind entertainer for 
guide. The road was difficult and rough and the pilot not 
acquainted with it ; so that it was after night before they 
reached the house of James Scarlet. The pain in Thomas 
Kite's face still continued, and it was probably increased by 
the exposure to which he was necessarily subjected. The 
next day was Robeson Monthly Meeting, which was a small 
gathering, but five women present. Although there were 
rather more men, yet several of them had not the ap- 
pearance of Friends. One of the committee thus described 
the meeting : " I was prepared to believe the outward ap- 
pearance was a fair representation of the hearts of those 
assembled, and the thought passed through my mind, 'what 



1845.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



469 



can be said here, all seems so dead V Whilst such thoughts 
[engaged] my mind, Thomas Kite rose to his feet, and was 
largely and powerfully engaged in testimony, so that at the 
conclusion I could acknowledge that he had been strengthened 
like the good scribe, to bring forth out of the treasury things 
new and old." 

After dining with James Scarlet, the Friends returned to 
Mary Butler's to lodge, where on the following morning, 
Seventh-day the 11th, they had a religious opportunity. In 
this, Thomas Kite was much drawn to a little grand-daughter 
of their hostess, and also to her youngest son, who w r as about 
being placed out as an apprentice. At the railroad the 
Friends parted, Thomas Kite and W. H., Jr., returned by 
that route to Philadelphia, whilst A. S. proceeded home in 
his carriage. 

Of this journey Aaron Sharpless says : " I have often looked 
back upon this little journey with satisfaction ; and the im- 
pression on my mind relative to dear father's services is, that 
he was peculiarly favored, and that his gift shone with unusual 
brilliancy. Perhaps having recently partaken of the cup of 
affliction, my heart was a little softened, and therefore more 
susceptible of feeling." 

When Thomas Kite reached his own dwelling he was 
much unwell, the pains in his face continued, and he seemed 
somewhat w r orn and wearied ; yet the next day he attended 
the three meetings held in the Arch Street House. On 
Second and Third-days he paid several visits, in some of 
which he was engaged in the ministry. In one of these 
visits he spoke of his last journey, and said that whilst en- 
gaged in it, much service and exercise had fallen to his lot, 
and this not merely in relation to the matter on which he 
had been appointed. He said that in most of the families 



# 

470 MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1845. 



and meetings the committee had visited he had had religious 
service. He added, it felt trying to him to be so frequently 
engaged in the line of the ministry, but he could see no way, 
except in yielding himself to Divine requiring. " And now," 
he added, " I have come home poor, and stripped, and empty." 
He expressed this with great seriousness and deep feeling. 
After a time he said with solemnity, that his mind had re- 
curred to w T hat the apostle says, " Let a man so account of 
us as the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of 
God. Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found 
faithful," and also, " As every man has received the gift, even 
so minister the same one to another as good stewards of the 
manifold grace of God. . If any man speak, let him speak 
as the oracles of God. If any man minister let him do it as 
of the ability which God giveth : that God in all things 
may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to w 7 hom be praise 
and dominion forever and ever." He then expressed his 
belief that it was necessary for all who were called to that 
great work, deeply and seriously to consider the important 
meaning of these passages. 

On Third-day he called to see Deborah Welsh, a poor 
cripple, who for many years had suffered much acute pain, 
and who for some time had been entirely confined to her bed.* 

* Deborah Welsh was naturally of a docile and amiable disposi- 
tion ; and having very early in life submitted to the heart-tendering 
and heart-changing influences of her heavenly Father's love, she was 
enabled to enter into covenant with Him, and through his blessed 
power, she was supported through a life of great and varied suffer- 
ing, in a remarkable degree of patient, and even cheerful resignation, 
to the end of her days. 

Her parents were Methodists, and when quite a child, she also 
joined that Society. So far as could be perceived by those around 
her, her mind was kept so steadfast, as to be preserved from delight- 



1845.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



471 



After sitting by her in silence awhile, he addressed her in 
nearly the following words : 

" The very hairs of thy head are all numbered. I am well 

ing in the vanities and allurements of the world. Her very recrea- 
tions in childhood seemed in good degree seasoned with salt. At a 
very early age, it was her desire — repeatedly expressed to her mother 
— that her clothing should not be made after the tasty fashion, nor 
of such gay material as her sisters and companions wore, saying it 
was painful to her to wear such. She was also known frequently to 
expostulate with her fellow-members, much older than herself, be- 
cause of the inconsistency of their appearance with the profession 
they made of being the followers of the meek and lowly Jesus. This 
concern never left her, and she endeavored to be found faithful to 
her duty therein, pleading for that simplicity and sobriety in dress 
and deportment which becomes the followers of Christ. After the 
fifteenth year of her life, she never knew a day's exemption from 
bodily suffering ; and she was very often incapable of any active ex- 
ertion. During the intervals between the paroxysms of acute pain, 
she was ever busy, doing what she could towards maintaining her- 
self ; her father being by rheumatism very much disabled from labor- 
ing for the support of his family. After her thirtieth year, she was 
entirely confined to her bed, on which, for nine years afterwards, she 
endured sufferings which may safely be called agonizing. During 
this period she never once stood upon her feet ; and during much of 
the time she was unable to use her needle or her pen, two employ- 
ments much prized by her, and which had yielded her much pleasure. 
About twelve years before her death, her mind began to turn towards 
Friends, and she was evidently pleased with the visits of such mem- 
bers of our Society as called upon her. It is believed that their pecu- 
liar doctrines at that time formed no part of her conversation with 
them, yet she was evidently drawing nearer them in feeling ; and she 
afterwards spoke of the satisfaction she had experienced in silent 
communion of spirit with some of them. As she patiently abode un- 
der the operation of that Word of prophecy, which was leading her 
in a way she had not fully known, she in time felt a freedom to in- 
quire concerning the doctrines and Christian practices of Friends. 



472 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1845. 



assured that nothing will be .permitted to assail thee, but 
what is intended for thy good. I have at all times felt a ten- 
der regard for, and sympathy with thee, during thy long 
affliction. Recently I have felt more peculiarly so, believing 
that thou hast considered thy bodily infirmities of little ac- 
count, or as nothing in comparison to the mental, yea spirit- 
ual anguish, which thou hast endured. Do not think there 

She read " Barclay's Apology," and found that, with two or three 
exceptions, she had herself been brought into the same views which 
she found there so ably advocated. Those points in which she did 
not as vet see with Friends, she did not make subjects of discussion, 
but quietly pondered them in her heart until, in the Lord's time, she 
was enabled fully to unite with them. She now believed it right to 
sever the connection which had long subsisted between the Metho- 
dist Society and herself, and, therefore, applied for a certificate of 
dismissal from the congregation of 4 which she was a member. This 
certificate was granted her, yet not before her loving classmates had 
earnestly labored to persuade her to continue her connection with 
them. Her mind was now turned towards a union in membership 
with the Society of Friends. She prepared an application to them, 
but it was never carried to the Monthly Meeting of the Society, on 
the ground that there was no human probability that she would ever 
be able to meet with them. This was a great trial to her, but sup- 
ported by the presence of the Lord Jesus Christ, and a consciousness 
of having endeavored to act in his fear, and according to his will, 
she endeavored to bear all her portion of affliction without repining. 
She lived several years after this, cheered by the sympathy of a few 
valued friends, who watched over her with tenderness and care, 
seeking to administer, as they were able, to her comfort and support. 
Thus sustained by the Master, — consoled by his disciples, she patiently 
completed her measure of suffering ; and on the twenty-first day of 
the Fifth month, 1850, she was released from her earthly afflictions. 
She was in the fortieth year of her age. Twenty-five long years had 
been passed in bodily agony ; but what mattered it then ? The rest 
which remains for the people of God, opened before her, and an 
eternity of blessedness. 



1845.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



473 



is anything strange in the fiery trial which is now proving 
thee. Our dear Lord and Saviour permits it all for thy re- 
finement. Rejoice then, inasmuch as thou art thus made a 
partaker of his sufferings, that when his glory shall be re- 
vealed, thou also may est be a partaker with Him in joy un- 
speakable. Although that He requires of thee may be as 
dear to thee as thy right eye, pluck it out ; or as thy right 
hand, cut it off ; so that thou mayest be able to say from the 
very bottom of thy heart, 6 Not my will, but thine, be done.' 
If thou art faithful and obedient to thy Master's requisitions, 
thou wilt finally be found among those w T hich have come 
out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes and 
made them w 7 hite in the blood of the Lamb ; therefore are 
they before the throne of God, and serve him day and night 
in his temple ; and He that sitteth On the throne shall dwell 
among them. They shall hunger no more, neither thirst any 
more ; neither shall the sun light on them, nor any heat ; for 
the Lamb, which is in the midst of the throne, shall feed 
them, and lead them unto living fountains of waters, and 
God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes." 

On this afternoon he attended the Select School Committee 
for the last time. On Fourth-day it was evident that the 
disease had made great progress, and he was not out of his 
chamber that day. By the next morning his upper lip was 
much enlarged, and the disease about the head had put on an 
erysipelatous form ; some fever and violent suffering attended. 
The symptoms after this grew more and more discouraging ; 
the pain continued in the head ; and by First-day evening 
the swelled cheek opened and began to discharge pus in small 
quantities. During this day he asked his sister M., if she 
thought this sickness w r as to be the winding up of all things 
with him ? adding, u It is hidden from me." She replied, 
31 



474 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1845. 



" We hope to retain thee many years with us." On this he 
said, " Jesse Kersey was very ill when he was about fifty 
years of age, and if he had died then, it might have been said 
of him, as it was of Samuel, i All Israel mourned for him.' " 
" We would rather part with thee," said his sister, — " than I 
should live to dishonor the Truth," he added, finishing her 
intended remark. 

On Second-day, the 20th, when his brother N. returned 
from their Preparative Meeting of Ministers and Elders, he 
inquired about the meeting, evincing his continued interest 
in everything which concerned the religious Society of 
Friends. That evening his brother John, who was his phy- 
sician, wishing to have a consultation respecting him, brought 
Dr. Charles Evans to see him. On Third-day, the 21st, he 
said to his sister M., " We have been a favored family, and 
are all living except one sister, Sarah, and she died in in- 
nocency. Our dear parents, we believe, w r ere prepared to 
go, and my Elizabeth, and Joshua and Susanna." 

On Fourth-day, the 22nd, addressing the same sister, he 
said, ' This is not a time for much conversation, but I have 
many thoughts on my sick bed. I love to have thee sit by 
me, and have remembered the language of Thomas Scatter- 
good to George Dillwyn, " that when they were boys, and 
went in to swim, and were under deep waters, they could feel 
each other w T hen they could not speak." After a time, he 
said, " Light is sweet ; and a pleasant thing is it to behold 
the sun." AVhen Richard Jordan was on his death-bed, he 
said, he " had lived through one storm in the Society, and if 
it w-as his Master's w T ill, he was willing to live through 
another." 

Although it Avas evident that he did not clearly see that 
his sickness was to close his life, yet he was very anxious 



1845.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



475 



that all his temporal concerns should be settled ; and was 
uneasy till his brother had attended to a trifling matter, 
which would leave everything in comfortable order. For 
months before the time, he had been engaged in closing un- 
settled accounts ; he had made a new will, and so arranged 
his affairs, that there were no debts to pay, and no difficul- 
ties of any kind to trouble his executors. He felt no evi- 
dence that he should die at this time, but he had no assur- 
ance that he should recover ; and feeling the possibility, if 
not probability, of his decease, he said to his wife, " If this 
should prove my last sickness, I wish to be buried in a plain 
walnut coffin, and laid in the Arch street ground." 

As he lay patiently suffering, many sweet passages of 
Scripture passed through his mind, and furnished him with 
subjects for thought. At times he would repeat a text. One 
morning he broke out with a clear voice, as if he was deeply 
entering into the spirit of the passage, " Thine are we, 
David, and on thy side, thou son of Jesse." 

The disease had now in measure left his head, and had 
seated itself in one lung ; and on Seventh-day morning, the 
25th, he was much oppressed in breathing. His niece, Mary 
H. Walton came that morning to see him, and as she sat by 
his side, his lips were opened to minister encouragement and 
counsel to her. In this communication he pressed on her 
the necessity of walking " in the old-fashioned way of the 
cross." 

Soon afterwards E. C. M. and R. S. came in. They sat 
by his side in silence for a time, and then he said, " Notwith- 
standing there are many deep baptisms and trials to be en- 
dured, in order that the work of cleansing may be thoroughly 
wrought in us, yet it is a consolation to believe, that there 
are some who are bound together in the covenant of love 



476 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. [1845. 



and life, — who are made willing to suffer with Christ, — to be 
made conformable to his death, that they may be partakers 
of his resurrection." " Friends, I have but little to express, 
for I am very weak." 

When the friends retired, the doctor came in, and taking 
the patient by the hand, immediately perceived by the flut- 
tering pulse, that the hour of death was fast approaching. 
Of this he informed the family, and William, who was an in- 
valid, was sent for. About noon, his son-in-law, A. S., came, 
and was received by him in a warmly affectionate manner. 

It was thought best to inform him that his friends deemed 
his close near ; and his brother, the physician, said, taking 
him by the hand, " Dear brother, dost thou know that thy 
labor is nearly over, and that thou art going home ?" He 
replied, " Not certainly." The doctor added, " It has been 
in mercy hid from thee ; but it is plain to us." He paused a 
moment, and then said with remarkable composure, " Well." 
After a short time he inquired, " How long will I probably 
continue ?" He was informed that it was uncertain, but that 
it could not be long. 

His wife said, " We all know it will be a blessed change to 
thee, for thou hast been diligently and faithfully engaged in 
thy Master's service." To this he replied with emphasis, 
"Don't place it on that ground. It is not by works of 
righteousness that we have done, but according to his mercy 
He saveth us, by the washing of regeneration and the re- 
newing of the Holy Ghost, which is shed on us abundantly 
through Jesus Christ our Saviour. I have no confidence in 
any outward performance wmatever; but now at the final 
conclusion and winding up of my life, I wish for myself, and 
for all of us, that we may place our whole confidence in the 
•mercy of God, and thus be prepared for an admittance within 



1845.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



477 



the pearl gates, there to join the blessed company, whom no 
man can number." During the course of the afternoon, he 
many times repeated the text, " Not by works of righteous- 
ness which we have done," adding each time a few comments. 
Several times he quoted the saying of a worthy minister, 
Samuel Emlen, " The soul is a serious thing ; mind, you that 
hear me, it is a serious thing to die. The invisible world, — 
how awful!" 

At one time, after a period of solemn silence, he said, with 
reverent acquiescence to the Divine will, " The w r orking out 
our soul's salvation is an important work. If it should please 
my heavenly Father to take me within a few hours, his blessed 
and holy will be done." 

He inquired who were in the room. On being informed 
that his wife and children, with the exception of one, and 
that his brothers and sisters, with some of their children, were 
there, he said that it was a great satisfaction to him to have 
them around him. 

From time to time, as he lay growing weaker and weaker, 
he gave utterance to the exercise and thoughts of his heart. 
" What a blessing, at the end and winding up of all things, 
to feel an evidence of the sustaining presence round about. 
It is an unspeakable favor to know our sins to go beforehand 
to judgment." 

After a time of silence, he called John L. Smith to his 
side, and said, " Tell Rachel R. Sheppard that I am probably 
dying, or near it, and if she inclines to come, she may." 

This friend accordingly came ; at first he seemed to take 
but little notice, but after a time, gazing earnestly at her, he 
said, " I have not much to communicate, and particularly to 
thee, dear R., because the work is going on, and that is the 
greatest of all concerns." He then raised his voice, and with 



478 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



[1845. 



great solemnity, added, "It is of great importance, — of the 
highest importance, — to be altogether given up to the will of 
the Lord ; altogether given up. I desire not to draw your 
attention, or fix my own on anything outward. May we live 
in the fear of the Lord, and then He will give us his favor. 
I have remembered the language of one, upon a similar occa- 
sion, ' It is a serious thing to die ; the invisible world, — how r 
awful !' I wish to be preserved in this feeling to the very 
last, — to the close of all things." 

R. Allen and her daughter Elizabeth came into the room e 
He said to the mother, " It is probable I shall not see the light 
of another day." When they were retiring, he addressed the 
daughter, " Keep fast hold of the arm of thy dear Saviour. 
It matters not what are the trials and sufferings we meet with 
in this life, if they are but sanctified, they will prepare us for 
a crown of righteousness." 

The dear sufferer now said, " I expect Samuel Settle would 
wish to see me once more." Some one at this went for S., 
who immediately came. The only words he addressed to the 
visitor were these, " This is a serious moment, Samuel." 

The doctor inquired, " Don't thou feel very composed ?" 
He replied, " I feel quiet ; very composed, is a strong' term." 
" I wish to encourage the faint-hearted among you ; those 
that are fearing and trembling, and feel themselves of no ac- 
count. The Lord's pow T er is sufficient. Oh, trust in the 
Lord, and don't be afraid. We must all give an account of 
ourselves for ourselves." 

Frequently alluding to his temporal, as well as spiritual 
affairs, he said, " they were all settled." 

The weakness of death now came on him, and he lay dur- 
ing the evening supported by two of his brothers, in apparent 
unconsciousness of the things around. A few words escaped 



1845.] 



MEMOIR OF THOMAS KITE. 



479 



his lips, which seemed to be, " Spiritual rest," — " Going to 
the heavenly Jerusalem." Soon afterwards, with no appa- 
rent pain, or bodily struggle, the immortal spirit was released 
from its corruptible companion. 

Many bereaved ones were there ; yet in the holy quiet 
which covered those assembled, and in the inward assurance 
of the holy translation which the husband, the brother, the 
father, the uncle had experienced, a degree of resignation was 
felt, and a desire to acquiesce in the Divine will, was ex- 
perienced. 



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